2008 Audi A3 vs. 1971 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1971 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1971 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1971 Mazda RX-2 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 1971 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1971 Mazda RX-2 (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1971 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1971 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2480 mm |
