2002 Mazda 2 vs. 1997 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2002 Mazda 2 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 1,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Sentra (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (66 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 2 weights approximately 194 kg more than 1997 Nissan Sentra.
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, 2002 Mazda 2 (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 2 | 1997 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 2 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2440 mm |
