2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Mazda BT-50
To start off, 2011 Mazda BT-50 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 2,953 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda BT-50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda BT-50 (154 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda BT-50 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2011 Mazda BT-50 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, 2011 Mazda BT-50 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, 2011 Mazda BT-50 (380 Nm @ 180 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda BT-50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2011 Mazda BT-50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | BT-50 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 180 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 96.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 102 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3010 mm |
