2009 Pontiac Solstice vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Pontiac Solstice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Pontiac Solstice would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 2009 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (353 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Pontiac Solstice | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Pontiac | Mazda |
Model | Solstice | 3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1560 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 353 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |