2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Scion tC
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Scion tC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Scion tC would be higher. At 2,362 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Scion tC (158 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Scion tC weights approximately 195 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Scion tC (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (204 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Scion tC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2004 Scion tC | |
| Make | Mazda | Scion |
| Model | 3 | tC |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2362 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
