1988 Ford RS 200 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 RS 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford RS 200 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford RS 200 (247 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford RS 200 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford RS 200 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 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 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford RS 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford RS 200 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | RS 200 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1804 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4520 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 |
