Mazda MAZDASPEED3 vs. Nissan Altima Review

Performance
As far as horsepower, the MAZDASPEED3 packs quite a punch and will knock the Nissan Altima down a few rungs. However, note that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Handling
With their similar turning circles, the Mazda and the Nissan Altima definitely handle about the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Mazda MAZDASPEED3's engine is somewhat smaller than the Nissan Altima's, but not terribly so. The Mazda packs quite a wallop compared to the Nissan as far as torque, which is roughly equivalent to acceleration. Torque is roughly equivalent to acceleration, and in this respect, the Mazda MAZDASPEED3 is tremendously more powerful than the Nissan Altima.

Utility
The Nissan and the Mazda MAZDASPEED3 can accommodate the same number of passengers.

Convenience
You will have to visit your friendly gas station more often with the Mazda MAZDASPEED3 than with the Nissan Altima.

Comfort
Taller drivers will considerably enjoy the extra head room in the Altima's front cabin compared to the MAZDASPEED3. While the rear of the Mazda MAZDASPEED3 offers a bit more head- and leg-room than the Altima, there really isn't much of a difference.

Dimensions
Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the Nissan Altima than the Mazda MAZDASPEED3 because of its larger tank. The Mazda and the Nissan Altima compete for the same parking spaces.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs roughly the same to get the Nissan Altima to the dealership as the Mazda. The MAZDASPEED3 requires a lot of gasoline compared to the Nissan Altima. As far as fuel economy, the Altima has the MAZDASPEED3 beat. The Nissan isn't much less pricey than the Mazda when it comes to MSRP. The Nissan Altima will save you a lots_of_money at the pump every year compared to the Mazda MAZDASPEED3.

Warranty
The MAZDASPEED3 and the Nissan Altima have the same basic after-sale protection.