2002 Audi S3 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi S3 would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi S3 weights approximately 1 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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 S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | S3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 61 L |
