2009 Chevrolet Equinox vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 121 kg more than 2003 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, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox (340 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Equinox | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Equinox | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
