2006 Audi A3 vs. 1984 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1984 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1984 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1984 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Mazda RX-7. 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 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1984 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
