2011 Mazda 2 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mazda 2 would be higher. Both 2011 Mazda 2 and 2012 Mazda 3 are equipped with a 1,560 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (113 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 2. (95 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 2. (205 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda 2 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 2 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| 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 | 95 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1695 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1475 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2489 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 55 L |
