2003 Ford Mustang vs. 1996 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 294 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 421 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Mustang is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MX-3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (556 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 422 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Mustang | 1996 Mazda MX-3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Mustang | MX-3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4599 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 400 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 556 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1059 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4230 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 65 L |