1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A3 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Audi A3, 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, 2011 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | A3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
