1994 Audi A8 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1994 Audi A8. (174 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1994 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Audi A8 weights approximately 32 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Audi A8, 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, 1994 Audi A8 (249 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1994 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 1994 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1994 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Audi A8 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A8 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
