1989 Ford Fairlane vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,949 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Fairlane (186 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 474 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Ford Fairlane 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 1989 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1989 Ford Fairlane (338 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fairlane | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fairlane | 3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3949 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 186 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2650 mm |
