2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe is newer by 4 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe (320 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe weights approximately 1240 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 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe 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 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe (454 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe 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. 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe | |
Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
Model | 3 | Tahoe |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 5300 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 320 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 182 Nm | 454 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 2471 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5131 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2007 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1953 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2946 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 98 L |