2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2002 Toyota Corolla. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2002 Toyota Corolla. 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 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota Corolla. (143 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2002 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
