2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1028 kg more 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 Volkswagen T5 (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | T5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1896 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 159 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 18.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
