1996 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Audi A3
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 461 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mazda 121. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2006 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 121 | 2006 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | 121 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2580 mm |
