2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Sentra 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 1271 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, 2008 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, 2008 Nissan Sentra (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| 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 | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
