1996 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mazda RX-4 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 1974 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Audi A3 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1974 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
