2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Hyundai Elantra would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (119 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 21 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (153 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. 2009 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1591 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
