1997 Mazda Sentia vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda Sentia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda Sentia would be higher. At 2,953 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda Sentia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda Sentia (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda Sentia should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda Sentia weights approximately 260 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 1997 Mazda Sentia 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 1997 Mazda Sentia. 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, 1997 Mazda Sentia (245 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda Sentia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1997 Mazda Sentia 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. 1997 Mazda Sentia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mazda Sentia | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | Sentia | 3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2953 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2639 mm |