2003 Subaru Legacy vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru Legacy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru Legacy would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (137 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Legacy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 32 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2003 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Subaru Legacy (187 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Subaru Legacy has manual transmission. 2003 Subaru Legacy will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru Legacy | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Subaru | Mazda |
| Model | Legacy | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
