2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1988 Mazda 929
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mazda 929 (110 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mazda 929 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mazda 929 weights approximately 163 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mazda 929 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 1988 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1988 Mazda 929 (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Mazda 929 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1988 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 929 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
