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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (270 Nm) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Taurus. (266 Nm). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Taurus | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 266 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
