2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2000 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 2,261 cc, 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2000 Nissan Sentra. (152 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Nissan Sentra.
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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Nissan Sentra. (176 Nm). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Nissan Sentra. 2000 Nissan Sentra has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Nissan Sentra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2000 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1770 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |
