2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (240 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 389 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.
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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (380 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix 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. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 3 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
