2011 Mazda CX-9 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 CX-9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mazda CX-9 would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 581 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2011 Mazda CX-9 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. 2011 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda CX-9 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | CX-9 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1964 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5085 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1935 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1727 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2875 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |
