2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1999 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Suzuki Vitara would be higher. At 1,598 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1999 Suzuki Vitara. (77 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 138 kg more than 1999 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Suzuki Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Suzuki Vitara. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Suzuki Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1999 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 3 | Vitara |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1590 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 77 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 42 L |
