2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1988 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Plymouth Horizon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1988 Plymouth Horizon. (91 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 217 kg more than 1988 Plymouth Horizon. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Plymouth Horizon. (165 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1988 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Mazda | Plymouth |
| Model | 3 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2213 cc |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
