2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (164 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (140 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | A3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
