2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1988 Porsche 944
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Porsche 944 (208 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Porsche 944 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Porsche 944 weights approximately 164 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 Porsche 944 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 Porsche 944. 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 Porsche 944 (281 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Porsche 944 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1988 Porsche 944 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | 3 | 944 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2990 cc |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 104 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2390 mm |
