2006 Audi A8 vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 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 3,123 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A8 (256 HP) has 101 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 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 A8, 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 A8 (330 Nm) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2006 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A8 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3123 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 155 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1671 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2270 mm |
