2001 Audi A8 vs. 1998 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,770 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (265 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1998 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1998 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 1998 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, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (294 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1998 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 | 1998 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A8 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2770 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2430 mm |
