2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (79 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1265 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.
Because 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 372 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 2315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 5179 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1903 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1901 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3001 mm |
