2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1988 Nissan Prairie
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Nissan Prairie. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan Prairie would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1988 Nissan Prairie. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Nissan Prairie. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 108 kg more than 1988 Nissan Prairie. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Nissan Prairie. (121 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Nissan Prairie.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1988 Nissan Prairie | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Prairie |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1487 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 978 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
