1997 Audi A4 vs. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 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 3 kg more than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
