2002 Honda S2000 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Honda S2000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Honda S2000 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Honda S2000 (238 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Honda S2000 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2002 Honda S2000.
Because 2002 Honda S2000 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 Honda S2000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda S2000. (208 Nm @ 7500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda S2000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda S2000 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | S2000 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
