2001 Hyundai Matrix vs. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Hyundai Matrix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Hyundai Matrix would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2001 Hyundai Matrix. (81 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Hyundai Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Hyundai Matrix weights approximately 265 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Hyundai Matrix, 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, 2001 Hyundai Matrix (183 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Hyundai Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Hyundai Matrix | 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Matrix | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1495 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
