2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan 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 Volkswagen Tiguan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan. (108 HP @ 2750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan weights approximately 308 kg more than 2005 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 Volkswagen Tiguan (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Tiguan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1543 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4426 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1809 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1703 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2604 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
