2006 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Mazda 929
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1980 Mazda 929. (83 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1980 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mazda 929. 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 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda 929. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1980 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 929 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
