2001 Audi A6 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A6 would be higher. At 2,974 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A6 (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A6, 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 A6 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2001 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 2001 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A6 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
