2008 Audi S3 vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Audi S3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 216 kg more than 2008 Audi S3.
Because 2008 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S3 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 S3 (330 Nm) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2008 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S3 | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | S3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1671 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |
