1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 578 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (117 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | 323 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
