2011 Nissan Frontier vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Nissan Frontier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Nissan Frontier would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 2011 Nissan Frontier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2011 Nissan Frontier has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Nissan Frontier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2011 Nissan Frontier | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Nissan | Mazda |
Model | Frontier | 3 |
Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3952 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 261 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 381 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |