2002 Porsche Boxster 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 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 2,687 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Porsche Boxster (224 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2002 Porsche Boxster.
Because 2002 Porsche Boxster 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 Porsche Boxster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Porsche Boxster (260 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Porsche Boxster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Porsche Boxster | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Porsche | Mazda |
| Model | Boxster | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2687 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
