1996 Audi A6 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 13 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1996 Audi A6. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 295 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A6. (173 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A6 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 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 | 1420 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
