2005 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 2005 Audi A3, 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, 2005 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
