2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2011 Nissan Sentra is newer by 7 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2011 Nissan Sentra. (140 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 434 kg more than 2011 Nissan Sentra. 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, 2011 Nissan Sentra (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2011 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1351 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4567 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1511 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
