2004 Mazda 6 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 6.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 6. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 6. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 6 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 59 L |
