2003 Proton Saloon vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Proton Saloon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Proton Saloon would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Proton Saloon. (82 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton Saloon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 166 kg more than 2003 Proton Saloon. 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton Saloon. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton Saloon. 2004 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Proton Saloon has manual transmission. 2003 Proton Saloon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Proton Saloon | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Proton | Mazda |
| Model | Saloon | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2650 mm |
