2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Nissan Murano
To start off, 2011 Nissan Murano 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Murano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Murano (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Murano should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Murano weights approximately 209 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2011 Nissan Murano (325 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Murano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2011 Nissan Murano | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Murano |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1759 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4823 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1702 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2824 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 82 L |
