2008 Mazda 6 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 6. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 6 weights approximately 74 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
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, 2004 Mazda 3 (203 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 6. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 6 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1282 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
