2006 Ford Mustang vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2006 Ford Mustang. (210 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Mustang weights approximately 230 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Mustang. (325 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Mustang | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
