2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1991 Nissan Vanette
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Nissan Vanette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Nissan Vanette would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1991 Nissan Vanette. (86 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Nissan Vanette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Nissan Vanette weights approximately 90 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1991 Nissan Vanette 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 1991 Nissan Vanette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Nissan Vanette. (148 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Nissan Vanette. 2009 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1991 Nissan Vanette has manual transmission. 1991 Nissan Vanette 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 | 1991 Nissan Vanette | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Vanette |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2080 mm |
