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 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 209 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (281 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). 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 | 1981 cc | 1835 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 155 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 171 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85.1 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1671 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |