2001 Ford Fiesta vs. 1997 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2001 Ford Fiesta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2001 Ford Fiesta. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 179 kg more than 2001 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1997 Mazda MX-3 (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Fiesta. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Fiesta | 1997 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
