2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2009 Nissan 350Z is newer by 6 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 470 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 2009 Nissan 350Z 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 2009 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3, 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, 2009 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 3 | 2009 Nissan 350Z | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | 3 | 350Z |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 306 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 195 Nm | 363 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1710 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Consumption City | 11.7 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |