2006 Hyundai Tucson vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Hyundai Tucson is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Hyundai Tucson is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Hyundai Tucson (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Hyundai Tucson should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Hyundai Tucson weights approximately 234 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Hyundai Tucson is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Hyundai Tucson 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, 2006 Hyundai Tucson (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Hyundai Tucson will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Tucson | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Tucson | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
