2008 Audi R8 vs. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Audi R8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 308 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi R8 weights approximately 135 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 will offer significantly more control. 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 R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi R8 | 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | R8 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 50 L |
