1996 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Touareg
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 3,595 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Touareg is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg (280 HP) has 174 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Touareg weights approximately 172 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Touareg is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mazda MX-3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg (361 Nm) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Touareg will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3. 2008 Volkswagen Touareg has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Touareg will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda MX-3 | 2008 Volkswagen Touareg | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-3 | Touareg |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 280 HP |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 100 L |
