2005 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 234 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 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, 2005 Audi A3 (320 Nm) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.5 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
