Tesla Model 3 vs Mazda 3
Data verified April 2025
At this driving profile, the Mazda 3 is the more economical choice over 5 years in New South Wales.
Running only 15,000 km per year in New South Wales, the Tesla Model 3's higher purchase price doesn't fully pay back through lower running costs within 5 years. The Tesla Model 3 costs $110,780 in total versus $63,331 for the Mazda 3 — a difference of $47,449. The numbers don't reach break-even within this holding period. If you drive significantly more km per year, or if petrol prices rise substantially, this comparison would shift. The Tesla Model 3 still avoids around 1,567 kg of CO₂ over the ownership period.
The economics don't stack up at this driving distance — increase annual km or extend the holding period to change the picture.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tesla Model 3 cheaper than the Mazda 3 over 5 years in Australia?
At 15,000 km/yr in NSW the Mazda 3 is the cheaper option over 5 years: $63,331 total versus $110,780 for the Tesla Model 3. Use the calculator above to adjust for your driving distance.
Does the Tesla Model 3 break even against the Mazda 3?
At 15,000 km/yr in NSW the Tesla Model 3 does not fully recover its price premium within a 5-year holding period. Higher annual km or an extended holding period would improve the picture. Use the calculator above to model your situation.
How much does it cost to charge the Tesla Model 3 vs fuel the Mazda 3 per year?
At 15,000 km/yr in NSW, charging the Tesla Model 3 costs approximately $799/yr (blending home and public charging), versus $1,719/yr in petrol for the Mazda 3.
How savings vary by state
5-year total cost at 15,000 km/yr using each state's electricity and fuel rates. Click a state for the full breakdown.
| State | EV saving over 5 yrs | Break-even |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | $47,449 | > 5 yrs |
| Victoria | $47,353 | > 5 yrs |
| Queensland | $44,786 | > 5 yrs |
| Western Australia | $44,808 | > 5 yrs |
| South Australia | $46,248 | > 5 yrs |
| Tasmania | $44,139 | > 5 yrs |
| Australian Capital Territory | $44,208 | > 5 yrs |
| Northern Territory | $43,741 | > 5 yrs |