2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (108 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (97 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1987 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |
