2008 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1998 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 1998 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 (321 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
