2002 Chevrolet Prizm vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Chevrolet Prizm would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm.
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 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Prizm | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Prizm | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2639 mm |
