1996 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder (270 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 1021 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Nissan Pathfinder is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mazda MX-3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder 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, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder (395 Nm) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda MX-3 | 2005 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-3 | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 395 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 2080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
