2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander weights approximately 335 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 Mitsubishi Outlander (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Outlander |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4295 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
