2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Mazda 6
To start off, 2012 Mazda 6 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 6 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 6 weights approximately 355 kg more than 2004 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 Mazda 3 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 6. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 6. 2012 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda 3 | 2012 Mazda 6 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 3 | 6 |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1349 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 226 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1510 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4755 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1795 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2789 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |