2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Subaru Legacy
To start off, 2005 Subaru Legacy is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Subaru Legacy (242 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 190 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Subaru Legacy 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, 2005 Subaru Legacy (310 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2005 Subaru Legacy has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Subaru Legacy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2005 Subaru Legacy | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | Legacy |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1500 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
