2004 Isuzu Ascender vs. 1998 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2004 Isuzu Ascender is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 4,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Isuzu Ascender is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Isuzu Ascender (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Isuzu Ascender should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Isuzu Ascender weights approximately 1111 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Isuzu Ascender is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda MX-3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Isuzu Ascender will offer significantly more control. 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 Isuzu Ascender (373 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Isuzu Ascender will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-3. 2004 Isuzu Ascender has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Isuzu Ascender will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Isuzu Ascender | 1998 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Isuzu | Mazda |
| Model | Ascender | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 373 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1920 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3280 mm | 2460 mm |
