2008 Audi A4 vs. 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 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 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4, 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 A4 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
