1996 Audi A4 vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (193 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A4 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1996 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A4 will offer significantly more control. 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 A4 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
