2009 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 626. 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, 2009 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
