2011 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Nissan NV
To start off, 2012 Nissan NV is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan NV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan NV (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan NV should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan NV weights approximately 1358 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Nissan NV 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 2012 Nissan NV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2012 Nissan NV (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan NV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2012 Nissan NV has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Nissan NV will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda 3 | 2012 Nissan NV | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | NV |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1297 kg | 2655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 6111 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 2029 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 2131 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 3711 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 106 L |
