2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,505 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Altima weights approximately 241 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Nissan Altima (244 Nm) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2004 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1361 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
