2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Mazda Marathon
To start off, 2005 Mazda Marathon is newer by 4 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, 2005 Mazda Marathon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda Marathon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 154 kg more than 2005 Mazda Marathon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Mazda Marathon (174 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda Marathon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2005 Mazda Marathon | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Marathon |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Van |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2260 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 10 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1517 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2680 mm |
