2001 Audi A6 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A6 would be higher. At 2,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A6 (174 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A6 weights approximately 561 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A6, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Audi A6 (370 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A6 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A6 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2698 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
