2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 3 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 630 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 2008 Nissan 350Z 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 2008 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (364 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2008 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
