2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
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 Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (159 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster 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, 2008 Nissan Altima (220 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima 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 Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2488 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
