2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Altima weights approximately 253 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.
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, 2005 Nissan Altima (237 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (230 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
