1988 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1988 Ford Fiesta. (44 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 561 kg more than 1988 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Fiesta. (68 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Fiesta | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 768 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2650 mm |
