2009 Audi A4 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 3 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 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 300 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, 2009 Audi A4, 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, 2009 Audi A4 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
