2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 1 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 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (282 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 513 kg more than 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500. 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, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (576 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Shelby GT 500 | 3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5409 cc | 2261 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 500 HP | 282 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 651 Nm | 576 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1485 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |