1996 Audi A4 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 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 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 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 66 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, 1996 Audi A4, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
