2008 Pontiac Solstice vs. 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Pontiac Solstice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Pontiac Solstice would be higher. At 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2008 Pontiac Solstice. (173 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Pontiac Solstice.
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, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Pontiac Solstice. (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Pontiac Solstice.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Pontiac Solstice | 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
Make | Pontiac | Mazda |
Model | Solstice | MazdaSpeed3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2300 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 226 Nm | 379 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4511 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1461 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 60 L |