2010 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 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. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
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 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Mazda 3 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2010 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
