2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Mazda 5
To start off, 2011 Mazda 5 is newer by 7 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 5 (113 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 5 weights approximately 250 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.
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, 2011 Mazda 5 (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (230 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2011 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 13.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
