2004 Ford Focus 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 Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 4 kg more than 2012 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 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Focus 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:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1387 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 60 L |
