1989 Audi 100 vs. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Audi 100 would be higher. At 1,992 cc (5 cylinders), 1989 Audi 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Audi 100 (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Audi 100 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Audi 100 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Audi 100 (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Audi 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 100 | 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 100 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1992 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1025 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 |
