2003 Audi A6 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A6 would be higher. At 2,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2003 Audi A6. (178 HP @ 3300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A6 weights approximately 275 kg more 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, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A6 (370 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A6 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2698 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
