2000 Pontiac Piranha vs. 2011 Mazda 3

To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Pontiac Piranha. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Pontiac Piranha would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Pontiac Piranha (212 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Pontiac Piranha should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Pontiac Piranha weights approximately 150 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (228 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Pontiac Piranha. (203 Nm). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Pontiac Piranha. 2000 Pontiac Piranha has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Pontiac Piranha will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2000 Pontiac Piranha 2011 Mazda 3
Make Pontiac Mazda
Model Piranha 3
Year Released 2000 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2199 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 212 HP 167 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 203 Nm 228 Nm
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1540 kg 1390 kg
Vehicle Length 4380 mm 4506 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2639 mm


 

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