2005 Nissan Altima vs. 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 7 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2005 Nissan Altima. (260 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 weights approximately 1 kg more than 2005 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Nissan Altima. (334 Nm). This means 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Altima | 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Altima | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 334 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4511 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |
