2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 1 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 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (257 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3.
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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Traverse. (361 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Traverse. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Traverse | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 2261 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 361 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
