2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Ford Focus
To start off, 2012 Ford Focus is newer by 8 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Focus (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 461 kg more than 2012 Ford Focus.
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, 2012 Ford Focus (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2012 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Focus |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4450 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1324 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 47 L |
