2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Fiat 500
To start off, 2011 Fiat 500 is newer by 5 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 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2011 Fiat 500. (101 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Fiat 500 weights approximately 195 kg more 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Fiat 500. (132 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Fiat 500. 2011 Fiat 500 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. 2011 Fiat 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2011 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Mazda | Fiat |
| Model | 3 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1368 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 35 L |
