2010 Mazda 6 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2010 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2010 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 6 (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
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, 2011 Mazda 3 (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 6. (193 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 6. 2010 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Mazda 6 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2010 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed shiftable automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4755 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1795 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2789 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
