2005 Nissan Altima vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (250 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Altima (338 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (270 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Altima | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Altima | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
