2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2013 Nissan ALTIMA
To start off, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA is newer by 4 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), 2013 Nissan ALTIMA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA (266 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan ALTIMA weights approximately 171 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, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Nissan ALTIMA | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | ALTIMA |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| 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 | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1511 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4864 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1829 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
