1986 Audi 100 vs. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Audi 100 would be higher. At 2,144 cc (5 cylinders), 1986 Audi 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Audi 100 (138 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Audi 100 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Audi 100 weights approximately 259 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1986 Audi 100 (180 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm). This means 1986 Audi 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Audi 100 | 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 100 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1224 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2270 mm |
