1996 Suzuki Vitara vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Vitara would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. (86 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 23 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Suzuki Vitara 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. (216 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Suzuki Vitara has manual transmission. 1996 Suzuki Vitara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Suzuki Vitara | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Suzuki | Mazda |
Model | Vitara | 3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1383 kg |