2009 Audi A3 vs. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 209 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2010 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 2010 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 2010 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 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
