1994 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1994 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 1 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 1,845 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda MX-3 (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1994 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, 1994 Mazda MX-3 (157 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1994 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:
| 1994 Mazda MX-3 | 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1845 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1163 kg | 983 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2270 mm |
