2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda CX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda CX-7 would be higher. At 2,258 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 1 kg more than 2008 Mazda CX-7.
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, 2008 Mazda CX-7 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2008 Mazda CX-7 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. 2008 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2008 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2258 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 69 L |
