2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Toyota Carina
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 2,260 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Carina. (82 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1996 Toyota Carina. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota Carina. (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Carina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1996 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Carina |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1973 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2590 mm |
