2004 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 355 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (245 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A3 | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 245 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85.1 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1055 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2270 mm |