2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2011 Nissan Pathfinder

To start off, 2011 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 8 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Pathfinder (266 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 990 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 2011 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2011 Nissan Pathfinder. 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, 2011 Nissan Pathfinder (390 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2. 2011 Nissan Pathfinder has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Nissan Pathfinder will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Mazda 2 2011 Nissan Pathfinder
Make Mazda Nissan
Model 2 Pathfinder
Year Released 2003 2011
Body Type Hatchback SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1598 cc 4000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 104 HP 266 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 146 Nm 390 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 2070 kg
Vehicle Length 3930 mm 4884 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1849 mm
Vehicle Height 1550 mm 1834 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2850 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 80 L