2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2007 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2007 Nissan Maxima is newer by 6 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 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan Maxima (255 HP) has 143 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 478 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, 2007 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2007 Nissan Maxima (342 Nm) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (244 Nm). This means 2007 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2007 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2007 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 255 HP |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 342 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1558 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2830 mm |
