2005 Mazda 6 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 6 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 6 (220 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 6 weights approximately 258 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Mazda 6 (260 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 6 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1282 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
