2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2011 Toyota Prius 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 5 more horse power than 2011 Toyota Prius. (134 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Toyota Prius weights approximately 246 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 2011 Toyota Prius, 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Toyota Prius. (142 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2011 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Prius |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1800 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
