2007 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2008 Pontiac Solstice. (173 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Pontiac Solstice.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Pontiac Solstice. (254 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Pontiac Solstice.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 2008 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 3 | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 254 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 49 L |
