1996 Ford Mondeo vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Mondeo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Mondeo would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mondeo (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 82 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.
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, 2004 Mazda 3 (230 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Mondeo. (160 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Mondeo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Mondeo | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mondeo | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1322 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
