2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 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 182 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 335 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 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 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda 3 | 2003 Nissan 350Z | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | 3 | 350Z |
Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1349 cc | 3490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 265 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 363 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 81.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |