2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2006 Subaru Forester 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 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Subaru Forester is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Subaru Forester (163 HP) has 55 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Subaru Forester weights approximately 270 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Forester 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, both vehicles can yield 225 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2006 Subaru Forester has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Subaru Forester will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2006 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | Forester |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
