1996 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Mazda 6
To start off, 2011 Mazda 6 is newer by 15 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 6. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 6 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
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, 1996 Audi A3 (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 6. (165 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 6. 2011 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. 2011 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2011 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1795 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
