2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 325 kg more than 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara. 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (208 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Mazda |
| Model | Grand Vitara | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 60 L |
