2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2012 Dodge Ram 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Ram (212 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 2012 Dodge Ram 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 Dodge Ram. 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 Dodge Ram (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2012 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Mazda | Dodge |
| Model | 3 | Ram |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 98 L |
