2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Nissan Maxima
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 Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 223 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
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 Maxima (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Maxima 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 Maxima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |
