2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Nissan Maxima
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 Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Maxima (261 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 5 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2003 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2003 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2259 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2830 mm |
