2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2011 Opel Insignia 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 1,956 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Insignia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Insignia (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Insignia 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, 2011 Opel Insignia (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2011 Opel Insignia 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 Opel Insignia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2011 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Insignia |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2737 mm |
