1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Toyota Avensis

To start off, 2003 Toyota Avensis 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Toyota Avensis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Toyota Avensis (157 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Avensis should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Toyota Avensis weights approximately 385 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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 Toyota Avensis, 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 Toyota Avensis (204 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Toyota Avensis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2003 Toyota Avensis
Make Mazda Toyota
Model MX-5 Miata Avensis
Year Released 1999 2003
Body Type Convertible Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1498 cc 1988 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 112 HP 157 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 124 Nm 204 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 11.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1025 kg 1410 kg
Vehicle Length 3960 mm 4640 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1230 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2270 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 60 L