2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Toyota Yaris
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Toyota Yaris. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Toyota Yaris would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2006 Toyota Yaris. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Toyota Yaris. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 57 kg more than 2006 Toyota Yaris. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Mazda 3 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Toyota Yaris. (121 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Toyota Yaris. 2006 Toyota Yaris has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Toyota Yaris will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2006 Toyota Yaris | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Yaris |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1298 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 4.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 42 L |
