2006 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 446 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2006 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Audi A3 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A3 | 121 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1753 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 110 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1064 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |