1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe (276 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 711 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-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, 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe (336 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3. 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe has automatic transmission and 1995 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1995 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe | |
| Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
| Model | MX-3 | Santa Fe |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4676 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
