2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 110 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 2001 Volkswagen Microbus 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 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2001 Volkswagen Microbus (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2001 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
