2007 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 90 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3. 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 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mazda 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Jetta |
Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4557 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |