2003 Ford Mustang vs. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 4 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 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (250 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2003 Ford Mustang. (188 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Mustang. (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Mustang | 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3801 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
