2005 Nissan 350Z vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (287 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 69 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Nissan 350Z | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Nissan | Mazda |
Model | 350Z | 3 |
Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 287 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 363 Nm | 228 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |