1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Mazda Kusabi
To start off, 2003 Mazda Kusabi is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (137 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Kusabi. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Kusabi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Kusabi weights approximately 55 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Kusabi, 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, 2003 Mazda Kusabi (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Kusabi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Kusabi has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Kusabi will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Mazda Kusabi | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Kusabi |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1559 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
