1996 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 is newer by 16 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 5. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 350 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, 2012 Mazda 5 (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2012 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
