2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2011 Ford Fiesta 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2011 Ford Fiesta. (120 HP @ 6350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2011 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford Fiesta. (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2011 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 1151 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4067 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1697 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
