2006 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
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 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2006 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 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 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
