2008 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Elantra 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Elantra.
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, 2006 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Elantra | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
