2002 Nissan Maxima vs. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Maxima (252 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima, 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 Nissan Maxima (334 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Nissan Maxima | 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Nissan | Mazda |
Model | Maxima | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2002 | 2010 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 252 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 334 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2329 mm |