2001 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
