2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2010 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 371 kg more than 2010 Mazda 3. 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, 2010 Mazda 3, 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, 2010 Mazda 3 (183 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2010 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2010 Mazda 3 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. 2010 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
Year Released | 2001 | 2010 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 171 Nm | 183 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2639 mm |