2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 TVR Chimaera (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 725 kg more than 2002 TVR Chimaera.
Because 2002 TVR Chimaera 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 2002 TVR Chimaera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2002 TVR Chimaera (306 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2002 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Mazda | TVR |
| Model | 3 | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
