1998 Ford Focus vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (131 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 48 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus.
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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.8 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
