1996 Ford Tracer vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Tracer would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP) has 196 more horse power than 1996 Ford Tracer. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 363 kg more than 1996 Ford Tracer. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (381 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Tracer. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Tracer | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Tracer | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 263 HP |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
