2009 Audi A3 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 398 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
