2006 Mazda 6 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 6 would be higher. Both 2006 Mazda 6 and 2009 Mazda 3 are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 6 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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, 2006 Mazda 6 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 6 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
