2006 Audi S3 vs. 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S3 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1994 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 S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 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 S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | S3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 955 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
