2003 Chrysler Pacifica 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 Chrysler Pacifica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chrysler Pacifica would be higher. At 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler Pacifica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler Pacifica (254 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler Pacifica should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler Pacifica weights approximately 724 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.
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, 2003 Chrysler Pacifica (339 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler Pacifica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler Pacifica | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Pacifica | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2024 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 55 L |
