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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 129 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 306 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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 210 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 | 2260 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
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 | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |