2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Dodge Nitro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Dodge Nitro would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 308 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 2009 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Dodge Nitro | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Dodge | Mazda |
Model | Nitro | 3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 319 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 60 L |