2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Nissan 370Z
To start off, 2009 Nissan 370Z 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 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan 370Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan 370Z (332 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan 370Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan 370Z weights approximately 244 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 370Z 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 370Z. 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 370Z (366 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan 370Z 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 370Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | 370Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 332 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.5 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
