2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Ferrari California
To start off, 2011 Ferrari California is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 4,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Ferrari California is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ferrari California (460 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 356 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ferrari California should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ferrari California weights approximately 650 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 2011 Ferrari California 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 2011 Ferrari California. 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, 2011 Ferrari California (483 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Ferrari California will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2011 Ferrari California | |
| Make | Mazda | Ferrari |
| Model | 3 | California |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 460 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 483 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4562 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1308 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 78 L |
