2001 Audi A8 vs. 1979 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,695 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1979 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 770 kg more than 1979 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8, 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, 2001 Audi A8 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda RX-7. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1979 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1979 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1979 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A8 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3695 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 65 L |
