2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Microbus 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 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Microbus (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 570 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Microbus 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 Volkswagen Microbus. 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 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2005 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1725 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
