2008 Ford Ka vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka 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 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2008 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Ka weights approximately 2 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, 2008 Ford Ka, 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ka | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
