2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 775 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 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton. 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton 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. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 2035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
