2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Pontiac Vibe would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2006 Pontiac Vibe. (119 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 53 kg more than 2006 Pontiac Vibe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Pontiac Vibe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Vibe will offer significantly more control. 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 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Pontiac Vibe. (156 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Pontiac Vibe.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2006 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 3 | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1257 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
