2008 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A3 | 3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 105 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |