2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (220 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 6 weights approximately 351 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2004 Mazda 6 (260 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2004 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.1 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
