2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 2,384 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 147 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 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 2009 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3, 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, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2009 Pontiac Solstice | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 3 | Solstice |
Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2384 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 171 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1332 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 49 L |