2008 Audi A3 vs. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (161 Nm) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (148 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
