2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2010 Ford S-Max is newer by 7 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Ford S-Max (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Ford S-Max weights approximately 323 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.
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, 2010 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2010 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | S-Max |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
