2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Ford Granada

To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Granada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Granada would be higher. At 1,999 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Granada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Ford Granada. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Granada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Granada weights approximately 100 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.

Because 1981 Ford Granada 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 1981 Ford Granada. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Granada. (151 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Granada. 1981 Ford Granada has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Ford Granada will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Mazda 3 1981 Ford Granada
Make Mazda Ford
Model 3 Granada
Year Released 2005 1981
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 1999 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 187 Nm 151 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87.5 mm 84.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.1 mm 60.1 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1235 kg 1335 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4890 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2780 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 62 L