1996 Audi A4 vs. 1989 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1996 Audi A4 is newer by 7 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 52 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A4 weights approximately 15 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, 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, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (264 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 1989 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2598 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
