2007 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Solstice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Solstice would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (240 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 83 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Pontiac Solstice 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 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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 Pontiac Solstice (305 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (188 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 2002 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 3 | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2830 mm |
