2004 Ford Mustang vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,931 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (200 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 163 kg more than 2004 Ford Mustang.
Because 2004 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 2004 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Mustang | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3931 cc | 2260 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1387 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
