2009 Honda FR-V vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Honda FR-V 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda FR-V is equipped with a bigger engine.
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, 2009 Honda FR-V (174 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Honda FR-V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda FR-V | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | FR-V | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
