2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1987 Ford Aerostar
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Aerostar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Aerostar would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Aerostar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1987 Ford Aerostar. (88 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Aerostar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Aerostar weights approximately 81 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1987 Ford Aerostar 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 1987 Ford Aerostar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (184 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Aerostar. (160 Nm). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Aerostar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1987 Ford Aerostar | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Aerostar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2302 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 88 HP |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3030 mm |
