2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1999 MCC Smart
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 MCC Smart. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 MCC Smart would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1999 MCC Smart. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1999 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 MCC Smart 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 1999 MCC Smart. 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 MCC Smart. (80 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 MCC Smart. 1999 MCC Smart has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 MCC Smart will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1999 MCC Smart | |
| Make | Mazda | MCC |
| Model | 3 | Smart |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 599 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 63.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 63 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3230 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2280 mm |
