1978 Audi 100 vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 27 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Audi 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 246 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.
Because 2005 Mazda RX-8 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Audi 100, 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 100 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
