2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 105 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |