2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Rover 400
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Rover 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Rover 400 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1996 Rover 400. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Rover 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1996 Rover 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Rover 400. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1996 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | 3 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
