2008 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Mazda 929
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 929. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1978 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda 929. 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, 1978 Mazda 929 (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 929 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1978 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 929 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
