1990 Ford Taurus vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1990 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Ford Taurus weights approximately 264 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
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, 1990 Ford Taurus (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Taurus | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | 3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2650 mm |
