2005 Audi A3 vs. 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 282 kg more than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1993 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 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, both vehicles can yield 155 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.1 seconds | 10.6 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 | 1265 kg | 983 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
