2006 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 28 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 660 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, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
