1999 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi A4 (247 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi A4 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1996 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 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 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 Audi A4 (321 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1999 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4150 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2270 mm |
