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 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 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 223 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 (280 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 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 | 197 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
