2009 Audi A4 vs. 2004 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 462 kg more than 2009 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4, 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 A4 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 2004 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
