2009 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda RX-4 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Because 1974 Mazda RX-4 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 1974 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1974 Mazda RX-4 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1974 Mazda RX-4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1974 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
