2009 Audi A6 vs. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Audi A6 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A6 (221 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 70 kg more than 2009 Audi A6.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A6, 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 A6 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 321 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A6 | 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A6 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2270 mm |
