1990 Nissan Terrano vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Nissan Terrano. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Nissan Terrano would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Nissan Terrano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1990 Nissan Terrano. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Nissan Terrano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Nissan Terrano weights approximately 455 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 1990 Nissan Terrano is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Nissan Terrano will offer significantly more control. 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, 1990 Nissan Terrano (244 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1990 Nissan Terrano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Nissan Terrano has manual transmission. 1990 Nissan Terrano will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Nissan Terrano | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Terrano | 3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2639 mm |
