2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 314 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 Volkswagen Jetta (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
