1996 Mitsubishi Colt vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Colt would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Colt. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1996 Mitsubishi Colt. 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Colt. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Colt. 2005 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mitsubishi Colt has manual transmission. 1996 Mitsubishi Colt will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mitsubishi Colt | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mazda |
| Model | Colt | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
