2003 Acura MDX vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura MDX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura MDX would be higher. At 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura MDX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura MDX (238 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura MDX should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura MDX weights approximately 785 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Acura MDX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura MDX 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, 2003 Acura MDX (333 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Acura MDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura MDX | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | MDX | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1970 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
