2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (303 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (358 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Mazda | Buick |
| Model | 3 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2837 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
