2009 Volkswagen Touareg vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Volkswagen Touareg. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Volkswagen Touareg would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Touareg is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Touareg (218 HP) has 105 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (113 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Touareg should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2009 Volkswagen Touareg is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Touareg will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Touareg (407 Nm) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (270 Nm). This means 2009 Volkswagen Touareg will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2009 Volkswagen Touareg has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Touareg will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Touareg | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Touareg | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 113 HP |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1755 mm |
