1998 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1998 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, 2009 Mazda CX-7 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2009 Mazda CX-7 has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2009 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 69 L |
