2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 Ford C-Max
To start off, 2010 Ford C-Max is newer by 6 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2010 Ford C-Max. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Ford C-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Ford C-Max weights approximately 235 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
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, 2010 Ford C-Max (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Ford C-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2010 Ford C-Max | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | C-Max |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1828 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1626 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2648 mm |
