2003 Chevrolet Avalanche vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche would be higher. At 5,325 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche (282 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche weights approximately 797 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 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche 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, 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche (440 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche 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. 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Avalanche | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5325 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5640 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 60 L |
