2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3, 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, 2001 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2001 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
