2008 Pontiac Solstice vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Solstice (173 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 2008 Pontiac Solstice 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 Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 Solstice (254 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3. 2005 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Pontiac Solstice has manual transmission. 2008 Pontiac Solstice will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Pontiac Solstice | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Pontiac | Mazda |
Model | Solstice | 3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |