2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Vauxhall VX220
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 VX220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Vauxhall VX220 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Vauxhall VX220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall VX220. (146 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall VX220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 365 kg more than 2003 Vauxhall VX220. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Vauxhall VX220 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 2003 Vauxhall VX220. 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, 2003 Vauxhall VX220 (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Vauxhall VX220 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Vauxhall VX220 | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | 3 | VX220 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
