2005 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 286 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.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cobalt | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |
