2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1976 Audi 80
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Audi 80 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Audi 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1976 Audi 80. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1976 Audi 80.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Audi 80, 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 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Audi 80. (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Audi 80. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1976 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1976 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1976 Audi 80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | RX-8 | 80 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
