2006 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,984 cc, 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP) has 19 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 733 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (225 Nm). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1835 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 178 HP |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 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 |
