2005 Mazda Marathon vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda Marathon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda Marathon would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda Marathon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda Marathon weights approximately 440 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima.
Because 2005 Mazda Marathon 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 2005 Mazda Marathon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima, 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda Marathon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda Marathon | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | Marathon | Altima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 3490 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 10 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1517 kg | 1077 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 76 L |
