2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 4 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3.
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 MazdaSpeed3 (381 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
