2003 Dodge Viper vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Viper would be higher. At 8,277 cc (10 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Viper (500 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 352 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Viper weights approximately 235 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 2003 Dodge Viper 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 2003 Dodge Viper. 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, 2003 Dodge Viper (712 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 529 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Viper | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Viper | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8277 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 712 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
