2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 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 130 kg more than 2008 Nissan 350Z.
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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3497 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1112 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
