2008 Ford Focus vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,522 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (222 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 82 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2522 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
