2003 Mazda 6 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 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 186 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 2003 Mazda 6, 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 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 6 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 6 | 3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1998 cc |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 182 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1134 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |