2004 Ferrari F430 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ferrari F430. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ferrari F430 would be higher. At 4,307 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ferrari F430 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ferrari F430 (483 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 316 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ferrari F430 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ferrari F430 weights approximately 42 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 2004 Ferrari F430 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 2004 Ferrari F430. 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, 2004 Ferrari F430 (474 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ferrari F430 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ferrari F430 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mazda |
| Model | F430 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4307 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 483 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 474 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1425 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 108 L | 60 L |
