1998 Ford Falcon vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Falcon (221 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1998 Ford Falcon.
Because 1998 Ford Falcon 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 1998 Ford Falcon. 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, 1998 Ford Falcon (357 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Falcon | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Falcon | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3984 cc | 2260 cc |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 357 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.3 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
