2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Ford Escape
To start off, 2012 Ford Escape is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Escape (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Escape weights approximately 386 kg more than 2005 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, 2012 Ford Escape (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3. 2012 Ford Escape has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Escape will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2012 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Escape |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1466 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4437 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2619 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
