2005 Opel Zafira vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Zafira. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Opel Zafira would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2005 Opel Zafira. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Zafira.
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, 2011 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Zafira. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Zafira. 2005 Opel Zafira has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Opel Zafira will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Zafira | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Zafira | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
