2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Chevrolet Blazer
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chevrolet Blazer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chevrolet Blazer would be higher. At 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Blazer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Blazer. (190 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Blazer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Blazer weights approximately 321 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2004 Chevrolet Blazer is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Chevrolet Blazer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Blazer. (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Blazer. 2004 Chevrolet Blazer 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. 2004 Chevrolet Blazer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2004 Chevrolet Blazer | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Blazer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1806 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
