2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Toyota Tacoma
To start off, 2009 Toyota Tacoma 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 3,956 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (282 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2009 Toyota Tacoma. (237 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota Tacoma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Tacoma weights approximately 199 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2009 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, 2009 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 @ 4400 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Tacoma. (361 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Tacoma.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2009 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Tacoma |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 3956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 576 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1684 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3250 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 79 L |
