2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen W12 would be higher. At 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen W12 (600 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 452 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 299 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2002 Volkswagen W12 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 2002 Volkswagen W12. 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, 2002 Volkswagen W12 (335 Nm) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (183 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2002 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen W12 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2002 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | W12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 5982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 600 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1251 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
