1998 Ford Focus 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 Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,598 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 64 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, 1998 Ford Focus (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1598 cc |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 12.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1118 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
