1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1997 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. Both 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata and 1997 Mazda MX-3 are equipped with a 1,598 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 104 kg more than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1993 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 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-3, 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, 1997 Mazda MX-3 (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (131 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
