2006 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda Roadster would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda Roadster (197 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2001 Mazda Roadster.
Because 2001 Mazda Roadster 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 2001 Mazda Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2001 Mazda Roadster (196 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2001 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |
