2008 Audi A3 vs. 1983 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1983 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mazda RX-7 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 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 350 kg more than 1983 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1983 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 1983 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 1983 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 1983 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1983 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 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 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
