2007 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Porsche 996
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Porsche 996 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Porsche 996 weights approximately 250 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 2003 Porsche 996 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 2003 Porsche 996. 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, 2003 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 2003 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | 3 | 996 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2360 mm |
