2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Nissan Micra
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 Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 1,598 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Micra. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 142 kg more than 2008 Nissan Micra. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Micra. (128 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2008 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Micra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1386 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.7 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 46 L |
