2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Nissan Terrano II
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Terrano II. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Terrano II would be higher. At 2,389 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Terrano II is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Terrano II. (116 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Terrano II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Terrano II weights approximately 720 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 2003 Nissan Terrano II is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Terrano II will offer significantly more control. 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 Terrano II (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Terrano II will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2003 Nissan Terrano II | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Terrano II |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
