2009 Dodge Sprinter vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Dodge Sprinter. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Dodge Sprinter would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Sprinter is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Sprinter. (152 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Sprinter.
Because 2009 Dodge Sprinter 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 Dodge Sprinter. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Dodge Sprinter (280 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Sprinter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2009 Dodge Sprinter has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Sprinter will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Sprinter | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Sprinter | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 12 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5910 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2450 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3670 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 60 L |
