2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 261 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
