2008 Buick Enclave vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Buick Enclave. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Buick Enclave would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Buick Enclave is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Buick Enclave (275 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Buick Enclave should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
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, 2008 Buick Enclave (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Buick Enclave will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2008 Buick Enclave 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. 2008 Buick Enclave will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Buick Enclave | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Buick | Mazda |
| Model | Enclave | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
