2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2011 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A3 weights approximately 331 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3, 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, 2011 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | RX-8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
