2012 Mazda 5 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 5 (157 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 464 kg more than 2004 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, 2012 Mazda 5 (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mazda 5 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 5 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4585 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1615 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2751 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
