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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A6 (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1996 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6 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 A6 (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 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. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1781 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
