2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 140 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.
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 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Jetta |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1594 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4557 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |