2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 MCC Smart
To start off, 2005 MCC Smart is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2005 MCC Smart. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 266 kg more than 2005 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 MCC Smart is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 MCC Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 MCC Smart. (112 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 MCC Smart.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2005 MCC Smart | |
| Make | Mazda | MCC |
| Model | 3 | Smart |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2370 mm |
