2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 290 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 3 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
