2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 290 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero (255 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Pajero |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2972 cc |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2430 mm |
