2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 9 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (138 HP) has 34 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Civic weights approximately 240 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, 2012 Honda Civic (174 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm). This means 2012 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2. 2012 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | 2 | Civic |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1460 mm |
