2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Subaru Forester. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Subaru Forester 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 22 more horse power than 2008 Subaru Forester. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Subaru Forester weights approximately 193 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 2008 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Forester will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru Forester (184 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2008 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | Forester |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1994 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 11.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
