1997 Mazda 626 vs. 2001 Audi A3
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1997 Mazda 626. 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, 2001 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626. 2001 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 626 | 2001 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | 626 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
