2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Ford E-350
To start off, 2012 Ford E-350 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 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford E-350 weights approximately 1588 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 Ford E-350 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 Ford E-350. 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 Ford E-350 (474 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2012 Ford E-350 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 Ford E-350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2012 Ford E-350 | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | E-350 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5400 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 474 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5504 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2017 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 2111 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3505 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 132 L |
