Honda Accord vs. Mazda 3
Two different cars, a comparison test. There are so many good brands competing today, and automakers are fighting to get an edge over one another. Just looking at the stat sheet for a particular make of car simply won’t cut it anymore. One way to try and figure out if you’re getting good value for your money is to compare each vehicle’s data side-by-side and sum it all up with its reputation. The lucky participants in this comparison are the cheerful Mazda3 and the renowned Honda Accord. Now, in all fairness, only the entry-level trims of both brands are being looked at, so we can decide which car is the best value to offer the driving public.
We start with the Honda Accord LX. This car has a 2.4L inline-4, producing 177 horsepower at 6,500 rpm, and is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission gearbox. This economical engine has a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon for city and highway driving. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for this model starts at $21,765.
The Mazda3 i-SV is actually cheaper, at $15,295, since it’s classified as a compact sedan. However, this entry-level model is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, which puts out a modest 148 horsepower at 6500 rpm. It can achieve 28 mpg in both city and highway, making it a very fuel efficient unit. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, however there is an optional 5-speed automatic for those who don’t know how to use a clutch pedal.
Another thing is that there are some similarities that can be found in both cars, such as: 4 wheel ABS as a standard safety feature, ventilated disc brakes on all corners, and a front wheel drive train. In terms of curb weight, the Accord LX comes out slightly heavier at 3,230 pounds, compared to the Mazda’s 2,868 pounds. The Accord’s weight is supported by 16-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 215/60 all-season tires, while the Mazda 3 uses low-profile spec 205/55 tires on 16-inch wheels.
You have to remember, though, that all of these numbers are for the entry-level models only, for both automakers. Things get a little more exclusive, more competitive, and more expensive as you go up the different trim levels. The Accord offers three different trim levels, namely the base LX, the upgraded EX, and the top of the line EX-L, which offers premium features such as leather upholstery and an optional navigation system.
The Mazda3, on the other hand, is available in seven versions as either a sedan or station wagon, from the entry-level i-SV 4-Door to the 5-door s-Grand Touring wagon, which is equipped with a Standard 2.5-liter inline-4 engine, and a 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive.
The good thing about choosing the Mazda3 right now is its unbeatable price and fun-to-drive features that the Accord can’t match. Although, this begs the question, what if you suddenly decide to grow up and want a more refined and relaxing ride? We think so too, so a Honda Accord anyone?
