1977 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Audi A3
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 483 kg more than 1977 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda 323 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1977 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323. 2002 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1977 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1977 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 323 | 2002 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | 323 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 983 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 812 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
