2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 580 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Mazda 6 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2003 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 6 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
