2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Toyota Matrix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Toyota Matrix would be higher. At 1,793 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota Matrix (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2005 Toyota Matrix.
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 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Toyota Matrix. (167 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2005 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
