2007 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Express
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Express is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Express. (195 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Express. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 743 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3.
Because 2012 Chevrolet Express is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Express. (352 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Express. 2012 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 2012 Chevrolet Express | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Express |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 2231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 5692 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2012 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 2126 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3429 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 117 L |
