2003 Nissan 350Z vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2013 Mazda 3. (155 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 187 kg more than 2013 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2003 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Nissan 350Z | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | 350Z | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1303 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
