2008 Nissan 350Z vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2013 Mazda 3. (165 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 132 kg more than 2013 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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 Nissan 350Z (364 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3. 2013 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan 350Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan 350Z | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | 350Z | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
