1996 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 102 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 1996 Audi A3 (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 110 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1038 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 50 L |