2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Mazda MPV
To start off, 2003 Mazda MPV is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MPV (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MPV should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MPV weights approximately 500 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MPV, 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 MX-5 Miata (244 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MPV. (230 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MPV.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Mazda MPV | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | MPV |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2680 mm |
