2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Mazda 6
To start off, 2012 Mazda 6 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 6 (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 6 weights approximately 255 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 Mazda 6 (165 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 6 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 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2012 Mazda 6 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 3 | 6 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1349 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 169 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.3 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4755 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1795 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2789 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |