2001 Mazda Atenza 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 Mazda Atenza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda Atenza would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2001 Mazda Atenza. (103 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda Atenza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 353 kg more than 2001 Mazda Atenza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Mazda Atenza (240 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda Atenza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2001 Mazda Atenza 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 Mazda Atenza will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda Atenza | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Atenza | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2639 mm |
