2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2008 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2008 Nissan Versa is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Versa (123 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Versa weights approximately 1355 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.
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, 2008 Nissan Versa (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2008 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 2 | Versa |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1241 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
