2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Panoz AIV
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Panoz AIV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Panoz AIV would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Panoz AIV (301 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Panoz AIV should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2005 Panoz AIV.
Because 2005 Panoz AIV 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 2005 Panoz AIV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2005 Panoz AIV (408 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2005 Panoz AIV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2005 Panoz AIV | |
| Make | Mazda | Panoz |
| Model | 3 | AIV |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 408 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
