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 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1999 Suzuki Vitara. (77 HP @ 5350 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 232 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 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Suzuki Vitara. (126 Nm @ 3100 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 | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1590 cc |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 77 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5350 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 42 L |
