2008 Honda FR-V vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Honda FR-V 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 2,204 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda FR-V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Honda FR-V. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Honda FR-V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda FR-V weights approximately 276 kg more than 2003 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 Honda FR-V (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Honda FR-V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda FR-V | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | FR-V | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2204 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1586 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
