2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2012 Mazda 2
To start off, 2012 Mazda 2 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 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 2 (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 2 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2012 Mazda 2.
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 Mazda 2 (168 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 2. (119 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2012 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 2 | 2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 43 L |
