2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 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 102 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
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 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2260 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
