2001 Audi TT vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2001 Audi TT is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,963 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi TT (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi TT should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi TT weights approximately 460 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi TT, 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 TT (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi TT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi TT | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | TT | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
