1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Thunderbird (193 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 244 kg more than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1987 Ford Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (183 Nm) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Thunderbird | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | 3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 55 L |
