2005 Mazda 6 vs. 2006 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 6. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 280 kg more than 2005 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6, 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, 2006 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 6. (230 Nm). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 6 | 2006 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 6 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
