1986 Audi 100 vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 18 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 1,837 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1986 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 675 kg more than 1986 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Audi 100. (122 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Audi 100 | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 100 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1837 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
