2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 6 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 925 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, 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe (229 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe 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. 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe | |
Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
Model | 3 | Santa Fe |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2400 cc |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 182 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4685 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1725 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |