1998 Audi A4 vs. 2012 Mazda 6
To start off, 2012 Mazda 6 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 6 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1998 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 6 weights approximately 284 kg more than 1998 Audi A4. 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, 2012 Mazda 6 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A4. 2012 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A4 | 2012 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1795 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2789 mm |
