2001 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, both 2001 Audi A3 and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata were released in the same year (2001). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A3 (330 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (245 Nm). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |
