2003 Mazda 2 vs. 1987 Nissan 300 ZX
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Nissan 300 ZX (171 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 375 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1987 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2, 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, 1987 Nissan 300 ZX (234 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (168 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1987 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 1987 Nissan 300 ZX | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 2 | 300 ZX |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
