1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP) has 7 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (105 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 260 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (244 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (136 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3. 1995 Mazda MX-3 has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Mazda MX-3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1995 Mazda MX-3 | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1995 | 2001 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 112 HP |
Torque | 136 Nm | 244 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1080 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2270 mm |