1996 Audi A8 vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A8 (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (108 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A8 weights approximately 610 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 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 A8 (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (135 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1996 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A8 | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A8 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 50 L |
