1997 Audi A6 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A6 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1997 Audi A6. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 17 kg more than 1997 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A6. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A6. 1997 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A6 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
