2003 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 108 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 3 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 3 | 3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1558 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 88.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |