1996 Audi A6 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 A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A6 would be higher. At 2,392 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1996 Audi A6. (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A6 weights approximately 271 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 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 (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A6 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
