2007 Audi S3 vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Audi S3 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, 2007 Audi S3 (262 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (159 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi S3 weights approximately 300 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi S3 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi S3 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | S3 | 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 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.7 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
