2007 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 4,921 cc (10 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1022 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 522 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Phaeton | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4921 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 309 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 750 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2405 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
