2001 Mazda Sport Wagon vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon. (130 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon weights approximately 93 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon. (183 Nm). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Sport Wagon | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1232 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2329 mm |
