2004 Ford Fiesta vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2004 Ford Fiesta. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Fiesta.
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 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Fiesta. (106 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Fiesta | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
