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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 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. 2006 Ford Fusion weights approximately 37 kg more than 2004 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, 2006 Ford Fusion (204 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). 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 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1559 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1177 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.6 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
