2005 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 3 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2005 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Audi A3 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A3 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 211 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1338 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |