2004 Mazda 2 vs. 1988 Nissan Vanette
To start off, 2004 Mazda 2 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Nissan Vanette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan Vanette would be higher. At 1,952 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Nissan Vanette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Nissan Vanette (86 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 2. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Nissan Vanette should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 2 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1988 Nissan Vanette.
Because 1988 Nissan Vanette 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 1988 Nissan Vanette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 2, 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, 2004 Mazda 2 (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Nissan Vanette. (148 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Nissan Vanette.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 2 | 1988 Nissan Vanette | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 2 | Vanette |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2080 mm |
