2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1990 Mazda 929
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 929. (110 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mazda 929 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3.
Because 1990 Mazda 929 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 1990 Mazda 929. 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 929. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 1990 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 929 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2720 mm |
