2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2013 Nissan Z
To start off, 2013 Nissan Z is newer by 5 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Nissan Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan Z (327 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Z should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan Z weights approximately 348 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 2013 Nissan Z 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 2013 Nissan Z. 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, 2013 Nissan Z (366 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2013 Nissan Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 327 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1573 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1845 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1326 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
