2005 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (200 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1989 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda RX-7. 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, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (264 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1989 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2430 mm |
