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Audi S3 vs Mazda MX-5 Miata RF - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (306 HP vs 181 HP), trunk space and price (47,400 $ vs 37,000 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Audi S3 or Mazda MX-5 Miata RF?

Audi S3 vs Mazda MX-5 Miata RF: Key differences

Audi S3

  • considerably more power
  • considerably more trunk space

Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

  • visibly cheaper
  • slightly more efficient
  • clearly lighter

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

S3

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is visibly cheaper – starting at 37,000 $ , while the Audi S3 costs 47,400 $ . That’s a price difference of around 10,390 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF performs slightly better – achieving 26 mpg, compared to 23 mpg for the Audi S3. That’s a difference of about 3 mpg.

MX-5 Miata RF

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Audi S3 offers considerably more power – delivering 306 HP compared to 181 HP. That’s roughly 125 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Audi S3 delivers clearly more torque with 295 lb-ft compared to 151 lb-ft. That’s about 144 lb-ft more.

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Seats: Audi S3 offers more seats – 5 vs 2.

In terms of curb weight, Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is clearly lighter – 2,452 lbs compared to 3,527 lbs. The difference is around 1,075 lbs.

In terms of cargo space, the Audi S3 offers considerably more room – 8.3 cu. ft. compared to 4.5 cu. ft.. That’s a difference of about 3.8 cu. ft..

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Audi S3 holds a decisive overall lead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

$47,400
S3

Audi S3

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All Wheel
  • Power HP : 306 HP
Audi S3
Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

Costs and Consumption

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Engine and Performance

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Dimensions and Body

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General

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Audi S3

The Audi S3 is a compact luxury sports sedan that combines understated elegance with dynamic performance. Its exterior showcases a bold, sporty design with sharp lines and a confident stance, making it stand out on the road. Inside, the S3 offers a premium cabin filled with high-quality materials and advanced technology, creating a refined driving experience.

details

Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

The Mazda MX-5 Miata RF stands out with its sleek retractable fastback design, offering an exhilarating open-air driving experience at the touch of a button. Its sophisticated styling and agile performance make every journey a thrill, perfectly blending everyday usability with the excitement of a classic roadster. Inside, the Miata RF maintains a driver-focused cockpit that enhances the connection between car and driver, providing an experience that's both intuitive and engaging.

details
Audi S3
Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

Costs and Consumption

Price
47,400 $
Price
37,000 - 40,200 $
FuelEconomy City
23 mpg
FuelEconomy City
26 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
32 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
34 - 35 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
14.5 gal
Fuel tank capacity
11.9 gal

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
Convertible
Seats
5
Seats
2
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,527 lbs
Curb weight
2,452 - 2,496 lbs
Trunk Volume
8.3 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
4.5 cu. ft.
Length
177.3 in.
Length
154.1 in.
Width
71.5 in.
Width
68.3 in.
Height
55 in.
Height
49 in.

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Drive Type
All Wheel
Drive Type
Rear Wheel
Power HP
306 HP
Power HP
181 HP
Torque
295 lb-ft
Torque
151 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2 L
Engine Displacement
2 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General

Model Year
2,024
Model Year
2,024
Brand
Audi
Brand
Mazda
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.