2006 Honda Element 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 Honda Element. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Honda Element would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Honda Element (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Honda Element. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Honda Element.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Honda Element | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Honda | Mazda |
Model | Element | 3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2184 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 217 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |