2009 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Jeep Wrangler is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,777 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Jeep Wrangler (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 27 kg more than 2009 Jeep Wrangler.
Because 2009 Jeep Wrangler 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 Jeep Wrangler. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Jeep Wrangler (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2009 Jeep Wrangler has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Jeep Wrangler will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Jeep Wrangler | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Jeep | Mazda |
| Model | Wrangler | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3777 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
