2009 Mazda 6 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 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 2,487 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 6 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Mazda 6, 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 6 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2487 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
