2006 Chevrolet Spark vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Chevrolet Spark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Chevrolet Spark would be higher. At 2,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Spark. (65 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Spark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 305 kg more than 2006 Chevrolet Spark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Chevrolet Spark 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 Chevrolet Spark. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3, 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, 2013 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Spark. (87 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Spark.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Spark | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Spark | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 995 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 65 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.5 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
