2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Corolla. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 272 kg more than 1996 Toyota Corolla. 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 Mazda 3 (203 Nm) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota Corolla. (111 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1996 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1331 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1282 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
