2009 Mazda 6 vs. 2003 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 6. (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 6 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2003 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 2003 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6, 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, 2003 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 6. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 2003 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 6 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2486 cc | 3490 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 76 L |
