2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, both 2006 Mazda 3 and 2006 Saturn ION were released in the same year (2006). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 330 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Saturn ION, 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 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
Make | Mazda | Saturn |
Model | 3 | ION |
Year Released | 2006 | 2006 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 49 L |