2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Nissan Primera
To start off, 2008 Nissan Primera is newer by 2 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 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Primera. (119 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Primera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Primera weights approximately 354 kg more 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, 2008 Nissan Primera, 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, 2008 Nissan Primera (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Primera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2008 Nissan Primera | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Primera |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1870 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
