2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Ford Escape
To start off, 2012 Ford Escape 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2012 Ford Escape. (171 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Escape.
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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Escape. (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Escape. 2012 Ford Escape 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 Ford Escape will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Escape |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2500 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4437 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2619 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
