2002 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (395 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Corvette.
Because 2002 Chevrolet Corvette 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 2002 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (543 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 356 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Corvette | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Corvette | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5969 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 395 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 543 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 300 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.2 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
