2004 Audi A4 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (128 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 18 kg more than 2004 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 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (196 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.5 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
