2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2012 GMC Sierra is newer by 4 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Sierra (403 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1127 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 2012 GMC Sierra 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 2012 GMC Sierra. 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, 2012 GMC Sierra (565 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 383 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2012 GMC Sierra 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. 2012 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 GMC Sierra | |
| Make | Mazda | GMC |
| Model | 3 | Sierra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 403 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 565 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 2352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5839 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2032 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1875 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3645 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 98 L |
