2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Toyota RAV4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota RAV4 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Toyota RAV4 (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 261 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.
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 Toyota RAV4 (250 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2002 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
