2003 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 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 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
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, 2012 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 (556 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Mustang | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Mustang | 3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4599 cc | 2184 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 400 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 556 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |