2005 Ford Econovan vs. 1998 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2005 Ford Econovan is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,788 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Econovan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Ford Econovan. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Econovan weights approximately 236 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-3.
Because 2005 Ford Econovan 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 2005 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-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, 2005 Ford Econovan (138 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Econovan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Econovan | 1998 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Econovan | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1788 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2460 mm |
