1998 Audi A6 vs. 1976 Mazda RX-3

To start off, 1998 Audi A6 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi A6 (286 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi A6 weights approximately 935 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1976 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 1976 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi A6, 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, 1998 Audi A6 (401 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-3.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Audi A6 1976 Mazda RX-3
Make Audi Mazda
Model A6 RX-3
Year Released 1998 1976
Body Type Station Wagon Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4172 cc 1964 cc
Engine Type in-line dual-disk rotary
Horse Power 286 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 401 Nm 135 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 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 1785 kg 850 kg
Vehicle Length 4800 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1600 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2320 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 58 L 65 L