2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Ford C-Max
To start off, 2012 Ford C-Max 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2012 Ford C-Max. (113 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford C-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford C-Max weights approximately 240 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, 2012 Ford C-Max (300 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford C-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 Ford C-Max | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | C-Max |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1828 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2788 mm |
