2008 Dodge Ram vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 2 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 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 507 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Ram 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 2008 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Ram | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1692 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 55 L |
