2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1989 Nissan Micra
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Micra. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1989 Nissan Micra. 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 (230 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Micra. (96 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1989 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Micra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1235 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2310 mm |
