2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan 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 148 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan. (108 HP @ 2750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan weights approximately 58 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Tiguan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1543 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4426 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1809 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1703 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2604 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
