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 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (119 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (153 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.4 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| 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 Weight | 1110 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
