1987 Honda Prelude vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Honda Prelude. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Honda Prelude would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1987 Honda Prelude. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Honda Prelude. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1987 Honda Prelude. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Honda Prelude. (157 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Honda Prelude.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Honda Prelude | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Prelude | 3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1958 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
