2007 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Nissan Sunny
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Sunny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Sunny would be higher. At 1,971 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Sunny is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Sunny. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Sunny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1996 Nissan Sunny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Sunny. (132 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Sunny.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 1996 Nissan Sunny | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Sunny |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1530 mm |
