2003 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 159 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
