2006 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,188 cc, 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (247 HP) has 173 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 895 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mazda 323 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 323. 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 @ 3500 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 1324 cc |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
