2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Hyundai Tucson
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Tucson 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 Tucson is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Tucson (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Tucson should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Tucson weights approximately 330 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.
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, 2012 Hyundai Tucson, 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, 2012 Hyundai Tucson (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Tucson will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2012 Hyundai Tucson 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 Tucson will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2012 Hyundai Tucson | |
Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
Model | 3 | Tucson |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4399 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1684 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |