2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 GMC Acadia
To start off, 2012 GMC Acadia 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 GMC Acadia is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Acadia weights approximately 932 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 GMC Acadia (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Acadia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2012 GMC Acadia 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 GMC Acadia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 GMC Acadia | |
| Make | Mazda | GMC |
| Model | 3 | Acadia |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 288 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 2112 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1986 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1849 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 83 L |
