2007 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 354 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. 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, 2007 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 121 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 121 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |
