2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma
To start off, 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma is newer by 2 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 1,832 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma weights approximately 205 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, 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma (174 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Carisma |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1832 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1334 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
