1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2184 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 16.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1465 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |