2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Vauxhall Meriva
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Vauxhall Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Vauxhall Meriva 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 59 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Meriva. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Meriva weights approximately 33 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 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Vauxhall Meriva. (138 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Vauxhall Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Vauxhall Meriva | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | 3 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
