2004 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 85 kg more than 2012 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Jetta | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 6.5 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
