2006 Ford Fiesta vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, both 2006 Ford Fiesta and 2006 Mazda 3 were released in the same year (2006). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP) has 5 more horse power than 2006 Ford Fiesta. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Fiesta.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fiesta, 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, both vehicles can yield 146 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Fiesta | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 105 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
