2012 Chevrolet Spark vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Spark is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Spark. (67 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Spark.
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 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Spark. (87 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Spark.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Chevrolet Spark | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Spark | 3 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 995 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 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 | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
