2006 Audi A8 vs. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A8 (329 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 830 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 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 A8 (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A8 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 50 L |
