2006 Volkswagen Polo 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 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Polo.
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, 2012 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Polo | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
