1988 Ford RS 200 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 RS 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford RS 200 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford RS 200 (247 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford RS 200 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford RS 200 weights approximately 49 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ford RS 200 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 1988 Ford RS 200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1988 Ford RS 200 (292 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford RS 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford RS 200 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | RS 200 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1804 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 55 L |
