2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Mercury Mountaineer
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercury Mountaineer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercury Mountaineer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Mountaineer is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Mountaineer weights approximately 809 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 2005 Mercury Mountaineer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mountaineer will offer significantly more control. 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. 2005 Mercury Mountaineer 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. 2005 Mercury Mountaineer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2005 Mercury Mountaineer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 3 | Mountaineer |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3996 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 2049 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |
