2006 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Mazda 929
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 929. (110 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1990 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 929. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1990 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 929 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
