2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
