1998 Audi A6 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A6 would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi A6 (200 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 1998 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi A6 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, 1998 Audi A6 (271 Nm) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm). This means 1998 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A6 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A6 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2639 mm |
