2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2013 Nissan Z
To start off, 2013 Nissan Z is newer by 7 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Nissan Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan Z (327 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Z should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan Z weights approximately 308 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 2013 Nissan Z 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 2013 Nissan Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3, 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, 2013 Nissan Z (366 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2013 Nissan Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Z |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 327 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11:01:00 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1845 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1315 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
