2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero (128 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 40 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.
Because 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero (190 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero 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. 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Pajero |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 95.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
