2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 5,200 cc (10 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (560 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 412 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 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, 2012 Audi R8 (539 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | R8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
