2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 3 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 1 more horse power than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 184 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, 2009 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2009 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
