2002 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 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 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. 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 (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Audi A3 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A3 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1125 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 |