2009 Mazda 2 vs. 2008 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2009 Mazda 2 is newer by 1 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Solstice (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 2. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 2.
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, 2009 Mazda 2, 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 (353 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 2 | 2008 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 2 | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 49 L |
