2009 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 8 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 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 150 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2001 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 2001 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 (320 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (244 Nm). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 112 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 244 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1080 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |