1997 Audi A8 vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A8 (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 455 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 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8, 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (169 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A8 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 50 L |
