2009 Chevrolet Colorado vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Colorado is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,901 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Colorado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Colorado (185 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Colorado should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Colorado weights approximately 175 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Colorado 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 2009 Chevrolet Colorado. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2009 Chevrolet Colorado (258 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Colorado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 2004 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Chevrolet Colorado has manual transmission. 2009 Chevrolet Colorado will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Colorado | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Colorado | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2901 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
