2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 2 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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 3 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 56 L |
