2005 TVR Chimaera vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 TVR Chimaera (281 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2005 TVR Chimaera.
Because 2005 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 2005 TVR Chimaera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2005 TVR Chimaera (389 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2005 TVR Chimaera has manual transmission. 2005 TVR Chimaera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 TVR Chimaera | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | TVR | Mazda |
| Model | Chimaera | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4546 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 389 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
