1981 Audi 80 vs. 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 80 would be higher. At 2,144 cc (5 cylinders), 1981 Audi 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Audi 80 (136 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80 should accelerate faster than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Audi 80 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Audi 80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80 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, 1981 Audi 80 (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (131 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1981 Audi 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 80 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2270 mm |
