2006 Ford Escape vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Ford Escape. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Ford Escape would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Escape (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Escape. (262 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Escape.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Escape | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escape | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
