1996 Audi A6 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A6 would be higher. At 2,770 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A6 (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1996 Audi A6.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6, 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 A6 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A6 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2770 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
