2001 GMC Safari vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 GMC Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 GMC Safari would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 GMC Safari (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2001 GMC Safari 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 2001 GMC Safari. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 GMC Safari. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 GMC Safari. 2001 GMC Safari 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. 2001 GMC Safari will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 GMC Safari | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | GMC | Mazda |
| Model | Safari | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 55 L |
