1996 Nissan Maxima vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 38 kg more than 1996 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Maxima. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1996 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Nissan Maxima | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Nissan | Mazda |
Model | Maxima | 3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 178 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |