2006 Audi S3 vs. 2009 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi S3 would be higher. At 2,258 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2006 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S3 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2009 Mazda CX-7.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2009 Mazda CX-7 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3. 2009 Mazda CX-7 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. 2009 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2009 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | S3 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2258 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1180 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 69 L |
