2006 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2006 Audi A4 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A4 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A4, 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 A4 (301 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A4 | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
