2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Skoda Octavia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Skoda Octavia would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2005 Skoda Octavia. (99 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 121 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Skoda Octavia, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Skoda Octavia. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Skoda Octavia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2005 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Mazda | Skoda |
| Model | 3 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1594 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2580 mm |
