2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Suzuki Baleno
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Suzuki Baleno. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Baleno would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Baleno. (98 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Baleno. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Baleno. 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 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Baleno. (133 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Baleno.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1996 Suzuki Baleno | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 3 | Baleno |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
