1996 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 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), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (282 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 345 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.
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, 2008 Mazda 3 (576 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 366 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
