2004 Panoz Esperante 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 Panoz Esperante. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Panoz Esperante would be higher. At 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Panoz Esperante (420 HP) has 272 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 235 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 Panoz Esperante 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 Panoz Esperante. 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 Panoz Esperante (529 Nm) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm). This means 2004 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Panoz Esperante | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Panoz | Mazda |
| Model | Esperante | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4589 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 529 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.8 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.9 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
