2006 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Audi A3 | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 163 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1065 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |