1998 Mazda Levante vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda Levante. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda Levante would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (146 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Mazda Levante. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda Levante. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda Levante weights approximately 135 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1998 Mazda Levante is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda Levante 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, 1998 Mazda Levante (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (135 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda Levante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1998 Mazda Levante has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda Levante will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda Levante | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Levante | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2650 mm |
