1987 Ford Sierra vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (155 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1987 Ford Sierra. (104 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 158 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, 2013 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, 2013 Mazda 3 (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Sierra. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Sierra | 3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1303 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2640 mm |
