2008 Dodge Durango vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Dodge Durango. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Dodge Durango would be higher. At 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Durango is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Durango (303 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Durango should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Durango weights approximately 219 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Durango is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Durango 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, 2008 Dodge Durango (447 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Durango will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2008 Dodge Durango has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Dodge Durango will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Durango | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Durango | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4701 cc | 2260 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1890 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 102 L | 55 L |
