1998 Nissan Serena vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Nissan Serena. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Nissan Serena would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Nissan Serena is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1998 Nissan Serena. (96 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Nissan Serena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Nissan Serena weights approximately 300 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 1998 Nissan Serena 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 1998 Nissan Serena. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3, 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Nissan Serena. (131 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Nissan Serena. 2005 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Nissan Serena has manual transmission. 1998 Nissan Serena will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Nissan Serena | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Serena | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2650 mm |
