2012 Mazda 3 vs. 2013 Ford E-Series
To start off, 2013 Ford E-Series is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2012 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2012 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Ford E-Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford E-Series (222 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford E-Series should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford E-Series weights approximately 67 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.
Because 2013 Ford E-Series is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2013 Ford E-Series. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2013 Ford E-Series (387 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Ford E-Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mazda 3 | 2013 Ford E-Series | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | E-Series |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 387 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed automatic | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4506 mm | 5504 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 2017 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 2085 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 3505 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 150 L |
