1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Mazda 6

To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 6 (164 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 6 weights approximately 444 kg more than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1994 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 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6, 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, 2006 Mazda 6 (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Compare all specifications:

1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2006 Mazda 6
Make Mazda Mazda
Model MX-5 Miata 6
Year Released 1994 2006
Body Type Convertible Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1840 cc 2261 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 129 HP 164 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 152 Nm 207 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85 mm 94 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.6:1
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 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 990 kg 1434 kg
Vehicle Length 3960 mm 4690 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1240 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2270 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 48 L 64 L