2007 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 1 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (171 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 60 kg more than 2007 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
