1996 Toyota Cresta 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 Toyota Cresta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Cresta would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Toyota Cresta (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Toyota Cresta should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota Cresta weights approximately 37 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Toyota Cresta is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Toyota Cresta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 Toyota Cresta (255 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Toyota Cresta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1996 Toyota Cresta has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Toyota Cresta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota Cresta | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Toyota | Mazda |
| Model | Cresta | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
