2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2010 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 2 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 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2010 Mazda CX-7. (244 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda CX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 233 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 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda CX-7. (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda CX-7. 2010 Mazda CX-7 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. 2010 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2010 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1718 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 69 L |
