2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 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 2,259 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 525 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 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2259 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 203 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |