2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Panoz AIV
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Panoz AIV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Panoz AIV would be higher. At 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Panoz AIV (301 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Panoz AIV should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Panoz AIV weights approximately 25 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 2003 Panoz AIV 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 2003 Panoz AIV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2003 Panoz AIV (407 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Panoz AIV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Panoz AIV | |
| Make | Mazda | Panoz |
| Model | 3 | AIV |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1347 cc | 4599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
