1996 Audi A4 vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1996 Audi A4 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,962 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A4 (101 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A4 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mazda RX-3 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-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A4, 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 A4 (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
