2003 Ford C-MAX vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford C-MAX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford C-MAX would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2003 Ford C-MAX. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford C-MAX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 363 kg more than 2003 Ford C-MAX. 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford C-MAX. (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford C-MAX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford C-MAX | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | C-MAX | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
