2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 Mazda 5
To start off, 2007 Mazda 5 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 5 (153 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 5 weights approximately 71 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.
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, 2007 Mazda 5 (201 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2007 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 5 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
