2007 Ford C-MAX vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Ford C-MAX is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2007 Ford C-MAX. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Ford C-MAX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Ford C-MAX weights approximately 294 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Ford C-MAX, 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, 2007 Ford C-MAX (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Ford C-MAX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Ford C-MAX | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | C-MAX | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
