2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 8 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 104 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 260 kg more 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.3 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 4.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
