2005 Ford Taurus 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 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Taurus (201 HP) has 53 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Taurus weights approximately 205 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 Ford Taurus (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2005 Ford Taurus 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 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Taurus | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
