2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru Impreza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru Impreza would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Impreza (246 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Impreza should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2003 Subaru Impreza.
Because 2003 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Impreza 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 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Impreza. (333 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Impreza. 2003 Subaru Impreza has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Subaru Impreza will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2003 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | Impreza |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 246 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 333 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
