1997 Maserati Shamal vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Maserati Shamal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Maserati Shamal would be higher. At 3,217 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Maserati Shamal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Maserati Shamal (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Maserati Shamal should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Maserati Shamal weights approximately 80 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Maserati Shamal 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 1997 Maserati Shamal. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1997 Maserati Shamal (444 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Maserati Shamal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Maserati Shamal | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Maserati | Mazda |
| Model | Shamal | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3217 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 444 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2850 mm |
