2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
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 Pathfinder. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Nissan Pathfinder would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Pathfinder (240 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 564 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 2004 Nissan Pathfinder is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Pathfinder will offer significantly more control. 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 Pathfinder (363 Nm) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (187 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Pathfinder 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 Pathfinder | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1874 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
