1996 Nissan Terrano II vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Terrano II. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Terrano II would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Terrano II. (116 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Terrano II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Terrano II weights approximately 243 kg more than 2010 Mazda 3.
Because 1996 Nissan Terrano II is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2010 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Terrano II 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, 2010 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Terrano II. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Terrano II. 2010 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Nissan Terrano II has manual transmission. 1996 Nissan Terrano II will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Terrano II | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Terrano II | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2389 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2639 mm |
