2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Altima weights approximately 287 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, 2011 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
