2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
To start off, 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander is newer by 3 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 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander (167 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Outlander |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
