2002 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 104 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 179 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
