2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace would be higher. At 2,446 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace. (89 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace weights approximately 530 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace 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 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace (226 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1997 Toyota Hi-Ace | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Hi-Ace |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2446 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1960 mm |
