2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Audi A5
To start off, 2011 Audi A5 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Audi A5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A5 (328 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A5 weights approximately 368 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A5, 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, 2011 Audi A5 (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2011 Audi A5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | RX-8 | A5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 67 L |
