2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2006 Nissan Xterra 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. At 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Xterra (266 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 385 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Nissan Xterra 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, 2006 Nissan Xterra 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, 2006 Nissan Xterra (385 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2006 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
