2012 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (296 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 279 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Mustang 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 2004 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (427 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2004 Ford Mustang has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mazda 3 | 2004 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 4606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 1662 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4506 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 59 L |
