2012 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mazda 6
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 6. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 131 kg more than 2008 Mazda 6. 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 6. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2008 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
