1987 Ford RS 200 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford RS 200 (247 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford RS 200 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 108 kg more than 1987 Ford RS 200.
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, 2009 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 @ 4500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Ford RS 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2009 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford RS 200 has manual transmission. 1987 Ford RS 200 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford RS 200 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | RS 200 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1804 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.7 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1232 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 55 L |
