1987 Ford Sierra vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1987 Ford Sierra. (66 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 130 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Sierra. (142 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Sierra | 3 |
Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 66 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 142 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2639 mm |