2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2003 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 2003 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2003 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 3490 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
