2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 11 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 333 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, 2012 Nissan Altima, 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima 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 | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Altima |
Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 163 Nm | 244 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1398 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4595 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2675 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 76 L |