2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mini Cooper would be higher. Both 2006 Mazda 3 and 2002 Mini Cooper are equipped with a 1,598 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2002 Mini Cooper. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mini Cooper.
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, 2002 Mini Cooper (149 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm). This means 2002 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2002 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mazda | Mini |
| Model | 3 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
