2003 Mazda 6 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 8 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (145 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 5 kg more than 2003 Mazda 6. 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 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 6 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
