2001 Mazda Atenza vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda Atenza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda Atenza would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda Atenza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2001 Mazda Atenza. (103 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda Atenza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 25 kg more than 2001 Mazda Atenza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mazda Atenza, 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 Mazda Atenza (240 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda Atenza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2001 Mazda Atenza has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mazda Atenza will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda Atenza | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Atenza | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2340 mm |
