2008 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A3 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1299 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 229 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 159 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 7 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |