2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Proton 400
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Proton 400 would be higher. At 1,349 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2003 Proton 400. 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2003 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Mazda | Proton |
| Model | 3 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
