2002 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 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 5,666 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (350 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 258 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 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 (485 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Corvette | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Corvette | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5666 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 485 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
