2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1996 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 490 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mazda MX-3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1996 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Traverse | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 65 L |
