1997 Honda Prelude vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Honda Prelude. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda Prelude would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Honda Prelude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda Prelude (131 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda Prelude should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda Prelude weights approximately 87 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Honda Prelude (178 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Honda Prelude will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda Prelude | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Prelude | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2650 mm |
