2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2006 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,953 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Pathfinder (265 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 745 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Nissan Pathfinder is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Pathfinder will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Nissan Pathfinder (385 Nm) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm). This means 2006 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2006 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 2165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
