2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport would be higher. At 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport (183 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport weights approximately 452 kg more than 2012 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, 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Trans Sport | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Trans Sport | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2639 mm |
