1987 Ford RS 200 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford RS 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford RS 200 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford RS 200 (247 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford RS 200 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford RS 200 weights approximately 9 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Ford RS 200 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1987 Ford RS 200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1987 Ford RS 200 (292 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 1987 Ford RS 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford RS 200 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | RS 200 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1804 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1232 kg | 1223 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 55 L |
