2006 Audi S3 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S3 weights approximately 345 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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 S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3. 2005 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | S3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1085 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
