1981 Audi 80 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 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 24 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Audi 80 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2005 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 2005 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 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 Audi 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 80 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| 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 | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2270 mm |
