1996 Audi S6 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1996 Audi S6 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 4,171 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi S6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi S6 (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi S6 weights approximately 910 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi S6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda RX-3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 will offer significantly more control. 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 S6 (420 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi S6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi S6 | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | S6 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4171 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 65 L |
