1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 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 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 295 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, 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 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 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 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 11 seconds |
| 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 | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
