2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2010 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 4 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 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 584 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 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mazda CX-7, 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, 2010 Mazda CX-7 (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2010 Mazda CX-7 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. 2010 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2010 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2300 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1718 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 69 L |
