1997 Mazda MPV vs. 2008 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2008 Nissan Versa is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MPV (146 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Versa. (122 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MPV should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Versa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MPV weights approximately 592 kg more than 2008 Nissan Versa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mazda MPV 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 1997 Mazda MPV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Versa, 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, 1997 Mazda MPV (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Versa. (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda MPV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Versa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MPV | 2008 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MPV | Versa |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2954 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2610 mm |
