2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 9 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 160 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Jetta |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 195 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4644 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1482 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2651 mm |
Fuel Consumption City | 11.7 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |