2001 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP) has 93 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda 323 weights approximately 187 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda 323 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 167 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 960 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 | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
