2004 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 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 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 9 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.6 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
