2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 2011 Nissan Frontier is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Nissan Frontier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2011 Nissan Frontier has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Nissan Frontier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2011 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 3954 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
