2012 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. Both 2012 Audi A3 and 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata are equipped with a 2,000 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 335 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2011 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:
2012 Audi A3 | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Audi | Mazda |
Model | A3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2329 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |