2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 5 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 813 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 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 2233 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5059 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1903 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1901 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2881 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
