2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 110 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
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, 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 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 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. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1030 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1640 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |