2003 Mazda 6 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (164 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Mazda 6 (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
