2005 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, both 2005 Audi A3 and 2005 Mazda RX-8 were released in the same year (2005). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3.
Because 2005 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 2005 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.5 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
