2008 Audi A4 vs. 2004 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 168 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. 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 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 2004 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
