1988 Audi 80 vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Audi 80 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1988 Audi 80. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 1988 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA weights approximately 162 kg more than 1988 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Audi 80, 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Audi 80. (120 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Audi 80 | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 80 | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2330 mm |
