2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | A3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
