2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Express
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Express 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 6,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Express (260 HP @ 3100 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 850 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.
Because 2012 Chevrolet Express 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 2012 Chevrolet Express. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Express (711 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 528 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2012 Chevrolet Express 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. 2012 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2012 Chevrolet Express | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Express |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 6600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 711 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 2400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5692 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2012 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 2070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3429 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 117 L |
