2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Nissan Sunny
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Nissan Sunny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Nissan Sunny would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1998 Nissan Sunny. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Nissan Sunny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1998 Nissan Sunny. 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Nissan Sunny. (132 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Nissan Sunny.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 1998 Nissan Sunny | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Sunny |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1530 mm |
