1996 Audi A4 vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 15 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1996 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (173 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A4 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1300 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 215 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1341 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2703 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 64 L |