2008 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 129 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 965 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |