2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (260 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Nissan Altima. (334 Nm). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 3491 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
