2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Toyota Tacoma
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Toyota Tacoma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Toyota Tacoma would be higher. At 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (282 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2005 Toyota Tacoma. (245 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Toyota Tacoma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Tacoma weights approximately 311 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2005 Toyota Tacoma 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, 2005 Toyota Tacoma 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 (576 Nm) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Toyota Tacoma. (382 Nm). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Toyota Tacoma. 2005 Toyota Tacoma 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. 2005 Toyota Tacoma will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2005 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Tacoma |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 576 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1796 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3250 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 79 L |
