2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1990 Nissan Terrano
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Nissan Terrano. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Nissan Terrano would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Nissan Terrano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1990 Nissan Terrano. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Nissan Terrano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Nissan Terrano weights approximately 415 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1990 Nissan Terrano is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Nissan Terrano 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, 1990 Nissan Terrano (244 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 Nissan Terrano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2009 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Nissan Terrano has manual transmission. 1990 Nissan Terrano will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1990 Nissan Terrano | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Terrano |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
