2004 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A3 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 73 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2004 Audi A3 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| 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 | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
