1997 Audi A4 vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A4 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (137 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A4 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A4, 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A4. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1997 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1997 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
