2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2011 Dodge Ram is newer by 3 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Ram (390 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 282 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1106 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Dodge Ram 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 2011 Dodge Ram. 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, 2011 Dodge Ram (551 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 311 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2011 Dodge Ram 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. 2011 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2011 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Mazda | Dodge |
| Model | 3 | Ram |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 390 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 551 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 2346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5817 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2017 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1877 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3569 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 98 L |
