2000 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (125 HP) has 51 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 8 kg more than 2000 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Mazda 323, 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda 323 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 125 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
