1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2012 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2012 Ford Mustang is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Mustang (305 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Mustang weights approximately 568 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Ford Mustang 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 2012 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-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, 2012 Ford Mustang (379 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 2012 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | MX-3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1627 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4778 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1877 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
