2011 Ford Taurus vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Ford Taurus 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. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2010 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2010 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, 2011 Ford Taurus (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 3. 2011 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2010 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2010 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Ford Taurus | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | 3 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 337 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5154 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1935 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1542 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2868 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
