1996 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mazda 6
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (160 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 6 weights approximately 471 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 will offer significantly more control. 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 (205 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2004 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2004 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |
