2002 Mazda 6 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 6. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 17 kg more than 2013 Mazda 3.
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, 2013 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 6. 2013 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 6 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
