1978 Audi 100 vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Audi 100 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Audi 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Audi 100 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1978 Audi 100 (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1978 Audi 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 100 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
