1987 Ford Sierra vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1987 Ford Sierra. (66 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1987 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Ford Sierra 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 Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Sierra. (142 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Sierra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Sierra | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Sierra | 3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
