1989 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2005 Audi A3

To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (200 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1989 Mazda RX-7.

Because 1989 Mazda RX-7 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 1989 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (264 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3. 2005 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Mazda RX-7 2005 Audi A3
Make Mazda Audi
Model RX-7 A3
Year Released 1989 2005
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2614 cc 1896 cc
Engine Type dual-disk rotary in-line
Horse Power 200 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 264 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1900 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 19.0:1
Top Speed 238 km/hour 187 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1285 kg 1295 kg
Vehicle Length 4340 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1270 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 2580 mm