2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Nissan Sentra 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 21 more horse power than 2006 Nissan Sentra. (127 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 190 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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, 2009 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Nissan Sentra. (175 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2006 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
