2008 Saleen S7 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Saleen S7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Saleen S7 would be higher. At 7,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Saleen S7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saleen S7 (750 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 602 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saleen S7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 53 kg more than 2008 Saleen S7.
Because 2008 Saleen S7 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 Saleen S7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Saleen S7 (949 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 766 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Saleen S7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Saleen S7 has manual transmission. 2008 Saleen S7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Saleen S7 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Saleen | Mazda |
Model | S7 | 3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 7000 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 750 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 949 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4755 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1981 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1041 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2692 mm | 2639 mm |