2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Toyota Previa
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Previa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Previa would be higher. At 2,438 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota Previa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Previa. (132 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Previa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Previa weights approximately 70 kg more than 2009 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, 1997 Toyota Previa (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota Previa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1997 Toyota Previa | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Previa |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2438 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 75 L |
