2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger would be higher. At 2,835 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger weights approximately 655 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Challenger |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 2835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2730 mm |
