2006 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Mazda 626
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 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (105 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1996 Mazda 626. 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 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1996 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
