2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (241 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 2 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1241 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
