2009 Nissan Altima vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2010 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda 3.
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, 2010 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Altima. (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Altima | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Altima | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
