2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,261 cc, 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Polo.
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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2006 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1896 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 95.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 10.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
