2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Nissan Hardbody
To start off, 2006 Nissan Hardbody is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. Both 2005 Mazda 3 and 2006 Nissan Hardbody are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2006 Nissan Hardbody. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Nissan Hardbody.
Because 2006 Nissan Hardbody 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 2006 Nissan Hardbody. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Nissan Hardbody. (174 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Nissan Hardbody.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2006 Nissan Hardbody | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Hardbody |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 13.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
