2008 Nissan Micra vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Micra. (81 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 334 kg more than 2008 Nissan Micra. 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 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Micra. (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Micra. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Micra has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Micra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Micra | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Micra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1461 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1049 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 60 L |
