2009 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 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 73 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 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, 2009 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Audi A3 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Audi Mazda
Model A3 MX-5 Miata
Year Released 2009 2005
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 1798 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 197 HP 124 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 167 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4500 RPM
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1545 kg 1055 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1250 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 50 L