2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2003 Toyota Corolla. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 475 kg more than 2003 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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota Corolla. (127 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2003 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 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 | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
