1996 Audi RS2 vs. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi RS2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi RS2 would be higher. At 2,226 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi RS2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi RS2 (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (166 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi RS2 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi RS2 weights approximately 404 kg more than 2007 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 RS2 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi RS2 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 RS2 (410 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi RS2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi RS2 | 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | RS2 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2226 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2340 mm |
