2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Toyota Prius. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Toyota Prius would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 Toyota Prius. (76 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2003 Toyota Prius. 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 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota Prius. (115 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2003 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Prius |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
