1996 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda 323 (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 206 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323.
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, 1996 Audi A3 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
