1996 TVR Chimaera vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 358 kg more than 1996 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1996 TVR Chimaera 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 TVR Chimaera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 TVR Chimaera | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | TVR | Mazda |
| Model | Chimaera | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3946 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 373 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
