2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Nissan Micra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Micra is newer by 6 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Micra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Micra. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Micra weights approximately 67 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Micra, 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, 2008 Nissan Micra (153 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Micra 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 | 2008 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Micra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1092 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 46 L |
