2008 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
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 RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-7 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
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, 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, 2008 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
