1996 Ferrari 512 M vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ferrari 512 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ferrari 512 M would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1996 Ferrari 512 M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ferrari 512 M (422 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ferrari 512 M should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1996 Ferrari 512 M.
Because 1996 Ferrari 512 M is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Ferrari 512 M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 Ferrari 512 M (500 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Ferrari 512 M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ferrari 512 M | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mazda |
| Model | 512 M | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1999 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 422 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2650 mm |
