2006 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. 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 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
