2005 Mazda AZ vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda AZ is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2005 Mazda AZ. (63 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda AZ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 480 kg more than 2005 Mazda AZ. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mazda AZ is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mazda AZ will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda AZ. (106 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda AZ.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda AZ | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | AZ | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 656 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 60.4 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2850 mm |
