2008 Ferrari F430 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ferrari F430. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ferrari F430 would be higher. At 4,308 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ferrari F430 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ferrari F430 (490 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 342 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ferrari F430 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ferrari F430 weights approximately 465 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 2008 Ferrari F430 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 Ferrari F430. 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, 2008 Ferrari F430 (466 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ferrari F430 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2008 Ferrari F430 has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ferrari F430 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ferrari F430 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mazda |
| Model | F430 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4308 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 490 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 466 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 370 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 370 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 55 L |
