2008 Ford Taurus X vs. 1998 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X is newer by 10 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus X (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Taurus X weights approximately 48 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Taurus X is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda MX-3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Ford Taurus X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-3. 2008 Ford Taurus X has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Taurus X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus X | 1998 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus X | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 65 L |
