2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2010 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2010 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2010 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda 3.
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 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Jetta | 3 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4644 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1778 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1482 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2651 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
