2004 Ford Taurus vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 243 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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 Taurus (281 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (146 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1503 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
