2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Suzuki Equator
To start off, 2012 Suzuki Equator 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 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Suzuki Equator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Suzuki Equator (152 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Suzuki Equator should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2012 Suzuki Equator.
Because 2012 Suzuki Equator 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 Suzuki Equator. 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 Suzuki Equator (232 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Suzuki Equator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 3 | Equator |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
