2008 Dodge Ram 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 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram 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 Dodge Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 364 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2008 Dodge Ram 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 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Ram | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 6300 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 129 L | 55 L |
