2010 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Mazda 2
To start off, 2011 Mazda 2 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2010 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2010 Mazda 3 would be higher. Both 2010 Mazda 3 and 2011 Mazda 2 are equipped with a 1,560 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 2. (95 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 2.
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, 2011 Mazda 2 (205 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Mazda 3 | 2011 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 2 |
| Year Released | 2010 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |
