1997 Ford Mustang vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1997 Ford Mustang. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Mustang weights approximately 61 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1997 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 1997 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (381 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Mustang. (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Mustang | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Mustang | 3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3795 cc | 2260 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 143 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 381 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 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 | 1390 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |