2006 Audi A4 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2006 Audi A4. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A4 weights approximately 147 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3.
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, 2006 Audi A4 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A4 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
