1996 Audi A3 vs. 1987 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1987 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda RX-7 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Mazda RX-7. 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, 1987 Mazda RX-7 (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1987 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2440 mm |
