2004 Mazda 6 vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 is newer by 1 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), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 390 kg more than 2004 Mazda 6.
Because 2004 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 will offer significantly more control. 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 6 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2680 mm |
