2012 Nissan Altima vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 192 kg more than 2003 Mazda 6. 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6. 2003 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 2012 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2012 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Nissan Altima | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
Make | Nissan | Mazda |
Model | Altima | 6 |
Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 270 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 349 Nm | 181 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1512 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4595 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1796 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2675 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 64 L |