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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (166 HP @ 6700 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 302 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 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 | 1984 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 166 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1332 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |