2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 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 2012 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2012 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 Mazda RX-8 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | RX-8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.2 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
