1996 Mercury Villager vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercury Villager. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercury Villager would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercury Villager is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1996 Mercury Villager. (149 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercury Villager. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercury Villager weights approximately 417 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercury Villager | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mercury | Mazda |
| Model | Villager | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2639 mm |
