1976 Audi 100 vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Audi 100 would be higher. At 2,142 cc (5 cylinders), 1976 Audi 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1976 Audi 100. (109 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Audi 100 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Audi 100, 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, 1976 Audi 100 (163 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1976 Audi 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Audi 100 | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 100 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2142 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2270 mm |
