1996 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 426 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.
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, 2009 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda MX-3 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
