2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 302 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 Frontier 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 Frontier. 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 Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2009 Nissan Frontier has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Nissan Frontier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2009 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.3 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
