2003 Fiat Punto vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Punto. (94 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 259 kg more than 2003 Fiat Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Punto. (128 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Punto | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Punto | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 55 L |
