2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Audi S3
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 S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi S3 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 62 kg more than 2003 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | 3 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
