2008 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2003 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 2003 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, 2008 Audi A3 (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 139 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 197 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
