2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 221 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 Mazda 6 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| 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 | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
