2003 Ford Mustang vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 293 kg more than 2003 Ford Mustang.
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, 2004 Mazda 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 (530 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Mustang | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Mustang | 3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4601 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 400 HP | 149 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 530 Nm | 187 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.1 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1492 kg | 1785 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |