1988 Ford Meteor vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Meteor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Meteor would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Meteor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1988 Ford Meteor. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Meteor.
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, 2009 Mazda 3 (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Meteor. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Meteor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Meteor | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Meteor | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1347 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
