2006 Ford Fusion 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 Fusion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Ford Fusion would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Fusion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Fusion (221 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Fusion weights approximately 332 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. 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 (278 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Fusion | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fusion | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 60 L |
