2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero would be higher. At 1,834 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero (118 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 27 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero will offer significantly more control. 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 Mitsubishi Pajero (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Pajero |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
