2005 Scion xA vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Scion xA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Scion xA would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2005 Scion xA. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Scion xA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2005 Scion xA. 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 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Scion xA. (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Scion xA.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Scion xA | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Scion | Mazda |
| Model | xA | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1495 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 7.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
