2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 GMC Savana
To start off, 2011 GMC Savana is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 6,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 GMC Savana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 GMC Savana (260 HP @ 3100 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 GMC Savana should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2011 GMC Savana 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 2011 GMC Savana. 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, 2011 GMC Savana (711 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 GMC Savana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2011 GMC Savana 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. 2011 GMC Savana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2011 GMC Savana | |
| Make | Mazda | GMC |
| Model | 3 | Savana |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 6600 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 711 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5692 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2012 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 2070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3429 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 117 L |
