2003 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 1,769 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1978 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 113 kg more than 1978 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda Cosmo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 Cosmo (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 1978 Mazda Cosmo has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mazda Cosmo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1978 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1092 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
