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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 241 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. 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 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
