2006 Ford Fusion vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Ford Fusion is newer by 2 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2006 Ford Fusion. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Fusion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 46 kg more than 2006 Ford Fusion. 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, 2006 Ford Fusion (204 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 2006 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Fusion | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fusion | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1559 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1177 kg | 1223 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.6 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
