1996 Ford Mustang vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,655 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (282 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1996 Ford Mustang. (215 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Mustang weights approximately 62 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1996 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 1996 Ford Mustang. 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (576 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Mustang. (386 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Mustang | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Mustang | 3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4655 cc | 2261 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 282 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 386 Nm | 576 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1485 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |