2012 Toyota Matrix vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Toyota Matrix 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2012 Toyota Matrix. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota Matrix.
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 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Matrix. (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Toyota Matrix | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Toyota | Mazda |
| Model | Matrix | 3 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1765 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1549 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2601 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
