2008 Mazda CX-9 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda CX-9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda CX-9 would be higher. At 3,725 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda CX-9 (270 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 2008 Mazda CX-9 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-9 will offer significantly more control. 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 CX-9 (370 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2008 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda CX-9 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | CX-9 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3725 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
