2012 Nissan Xterra vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 760 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra will offer significantly more control. 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 Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Nissan Xterra | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Xterra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4539 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1849 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1902 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
