2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2003 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2003 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | 3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
