2002 Mitsubishi Pajero vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero (175 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 542 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero will offer significantly more control. 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 Mitsubishi Pajero (255 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mazda |
| Model | Pajero | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1842 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2639 mm |
