2008 Nissan Frontier vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan Frontier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Frontier would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2008 Nissan Frontier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Frontier will offer significantly more control. 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 Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2008 Nissan Frontier has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Nissan Frontier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Frontier | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Frontier | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
