2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 Mazda 6
To start off, 2007 Mazda 6 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 6 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 6 weights approximately 169 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 6 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 6 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 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1354 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
