2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Nissan 350Z (364 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2007 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
