2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2012 Opel Zafira 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2012 Opel Zafira. (238 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Zafira.
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, 2009 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Opel Zafira. (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Opel Zafira.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2012 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Zafira |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
