2004 Hyundai Elantra 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 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Hyundai Elantra 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 10 more horse power than 2004 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Hyundai Elantra.
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) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Hyundai Elantra. (184 Nm). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Elantra | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
