2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Nissan Sentra
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 Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Sentra. (141 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2008 Nissan Sentra. 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, 2008 Nissan Sentra (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Sentra 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 Sentra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1999 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
