2005 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 26 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 2006 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
