2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Mercury Mystique
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercury Mystique. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercury Mystique would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercury Mystique is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercury Mystique (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercury Mystique should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercury Mystique weights approximately 188 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.
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, 1997 Mercury Mystique (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercury Mystique will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1997 Mercury Mystique has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercury Mystique will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1997 Mercury Mystique | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 3 | Mystique |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2258 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
