2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Mitsubishi SST
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 SST. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mitsubishi SST would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi SST is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi SST (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi SST should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi SST weights approximately 185 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 SST (296 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi SST will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1998 Mitsubishi SST has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mitsubishi SST will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1998 Mitsubishi SST | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | SST |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
