2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Pontiac Solstice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Pontiac Solstice would be higher. At 2,399 cc, 2006 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Pontiac Solstice (177 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 118 kg more than 2006 Pontiac Solstice.
Because 2006 Pontiac Solstice 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 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Pontiac Solstice. (225 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Pontiac Solstice.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda 3 | 2006 Pontiac Solstice | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 3 | Solstice |
Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2184 cc | 2399 cc |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 177 HP |
Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 360 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 97.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 16.3:1 | 10.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1347 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2420 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.4 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 49 L |