2008 Pontiac G8 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Pontiac G8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Pontiac G8 would be higher. At 5,967 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac G8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac G8 (362 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac G8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 2008 Pontiac G8 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 2008 Pontiac G8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2008 Pontiac G8 (530 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac G8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Pontiac G8 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Mazda |
| Model | G8 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5967 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
