2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 243 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 75 L |
