2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Mercury Mystique
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercury Mystique. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercury Mystique 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 30 more horse power than 1996 Mercury Mystique. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercury Mystique. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercury Mystique weights approximately 2 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercury Mystique. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercury Mystique.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 1996 Mercury Mystique | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 3 | Mystique |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2710 mm |
