2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Seat Marbella
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Seat Marbella. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Seat Marbella would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1996 Seat Marbella. (40 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Seat Marbella. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1996 Seat Marbella. 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 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Seat Marbella. (60 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Seat Marbella.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1996 Seat Marbella | |
| Make | Mazda | Seat |
| Model | 3 | Marbella |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2170 mm |
