2007 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 380 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2007 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 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, 2007 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 48 L |
