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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 318 kg more than 2008 Mazda 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 2008 Mazda 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 184 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 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 | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 10.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
