2005 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Mazda 929
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,969 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 929. (89 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1981 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda 929 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 1981 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3, 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, 2005 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 929. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1981 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 929 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
