2006 Mazda 6 vs. 2012 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra is newer by 6 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. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 6. (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 6.
Because 2012 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda 6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra will offer significantly more control. 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 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 6. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 6. 2012 Nissan Xterra has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 6 | 2012 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 6 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
