2007 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Xterra (265 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 30 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3. 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, 2006 Nissan Xterra (385 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (241 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 2006 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
