1989 Ford Fairlane vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 19 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 38 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 329 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 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, 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, 1989 Ford Fairlane (338 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 1989 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fairlane | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fairlane | 3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3949 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 186 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2650 mm |
