2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 3 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette (638 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 534 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 384 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 2012 Chevrolet Corvette 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 2012 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette (818 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 673 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2012 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Corvette |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 6200 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 638 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 818 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 330 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.7 seconds | 3.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4475 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1237 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
