2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 225 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.
Because 2006 Nissan 350Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Nissan 350Z. (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Nissan 350Z.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 2006 Nissan 350Z | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | 3 | 350Z |
Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3491 cc |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 360 Nm | 353 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1710 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |