2006 Mazda DrifterX vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda DrifterX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda DrifterX would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda DrifterX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2006 Mazda DrifterX. (108 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda DrifterX.
Because 2006 Mazda DrifterX 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 DrifterX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda DrifterX. (257 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda DrifterX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda DrifterX | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | DrifterX | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
