2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 904 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 Volkswagen Routan, 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 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Routan |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3600 cc |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 283 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6350 RPM |
Torque | 182 Nm | 352 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 2038 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5144 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1750 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3078 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 78 L |