2004 Ford Focus vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (144 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 43 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. 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 Ford Focus (202 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (181 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
