2006 Audi A3 vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
