1999 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-7 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi A4 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1978 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
