1978 Audi 100 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Audi 100 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Audi 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1978 Audi 100. 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 100 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
