2001 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2001 Audi A4 is newer by 23 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A4 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda RX-7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A4 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, 2001 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A4 | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
