1999 Honda Z vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Honda Z would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1999 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1999 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Honda Z, 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Honda Z. (60 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Honda Z | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Z | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 654 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
