2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2007 Nissan Sentra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 2007 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2007 Nissan Sentra (200 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2007 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1999 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
