2007 Mazda CX-9 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda CX-9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda CX-9 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda CX-9 (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2007 Mazda CX-9 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda CX-9 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, 2007 Mazda CX-9 (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2007 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda CX-9 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | CX-9 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
