2002 Lexus ES vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2002 Lexus ES is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,314 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus ES (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus ES weights approximately 1411 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Lexus ES, 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, 2002 Lexus ES (325 Nm) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm). This means 2002 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2002 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus ES | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | ES | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3314 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2436 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 50 L |
