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, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1997 Mazda Sentia. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda Sentia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda Sentia weights approximately 177 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda Sentia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda Sentia | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Sentia | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2953 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2639 mm |
