2009 Audi A3 vs. 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 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 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (136 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
