1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 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 2,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 358 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, 2013 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, 2013 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
