2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2012 Porsche Boxster 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 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche Boxster (320 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Porsche Boxster weights approximately 90 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 Porsche Boxster 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 Porsche Boxster. 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 Porsche Boxster (370 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Porsche Boxster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2012 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | 3 | Boxster |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4341 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1232 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2416 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
