2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1984 Porsche 944
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,479 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Porsche 944 (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Porsche 944 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1984 Porsche 944.
Because 1984 Porsche 944 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 1984 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1984 Porsche 944 (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1984 Porsche 944 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 1984 Porsche 944 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | 3 | 944 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2479 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
