2009 Ford Focus 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 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 129 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Ford Focus 2012 Mazda 3
Make Ford Mazda
Model Focus 3
Year Released 2009 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 105 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 145 Nm 183 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1171 kg 1300 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4590 mm
Vehicle Width 2000 mm 1755 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1471 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2639 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 55 L


 

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