2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2013 Toyota Tacoma
To start off, 2013 Toyota Tacoma is newer by 5 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 2,700 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2013 Toyota Tacoma. (157 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Toyota Tacoma.
Because 2013 Toyota Tacoma 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 2013 Toyota Tacoma. 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Toyota Tacoma. (244 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Toyota Tacoma. 2013 Toyota Tacoma 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. 2013 Toyota Tacoma will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2013 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Tacoma |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2700 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 95 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5286 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1835 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3246 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
