2004 Ford Focus vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Focus would be higher. Both 2004 Ford Focus and 2006 Mazda 3 are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 540 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.
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, 2004 Ford Focus (197 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
