2006 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
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 RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 197 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
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, 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 @ 1800 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 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 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 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:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.6 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.4 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
