1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 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. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 130 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, 2005 Mazda 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (131 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 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 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
